Unexpected Pool Service Employee Shot At By Dunedin Homeowners

DUNEDIN, FL — A pool services employee was injured by gunshot shrapnel after Dunedin homeowners heard noises in the pool lanai and saw a man they didn't recognize on their pool deck.

On June 15 at around 9 p.m., Pinellas County sheriff's deputies responded to 41 Concord Drive in Dunedin for a report of a burglary in progress.

During their investigation, detectives learned that 33-year-old Karl Polek, who is employed by Bay Area Pool Techs, arrived to service the pool at the home. Detectives said 43-year-old Jana Hocevar became concerned when she heard noises and saw a stranger on her pool deck.

She told her husband, 57-year-old Bradley Hocevar, who was also concerned because no one was supposed to be at their home at that time of the night. Detectives said Bradley Hocevar yelled to the man to get out and go away several times.

According to detectives, Jana Hocevar called 911, and Bradley Hocevar retrieved a rifle from their bedroom. The couple continued to hear noises and saw a flashlight approaching their door. Fearful for their safety, Bradley Hocevar fired two rounds from his rifle.

Shrapnel from the bullet and glass struck Polek, who fled from the lanai area. Bradley Hocevarthen fired several more rounds toward the lanai. Polek was transported to the hospital with minor injuries.

"In hindsight, he should have probably let them know he was coming at 9 o'clock at night, yet he made no effort to contact them at all," said Pinellas Sheriff Bob Gualtieri during a news conference.