Luca was injured and took time off for recovery.
In Season 3 of the TV series S.W.A.T., the character of Dominic Luca, played by Kenny Johnson, faces a significant setback when he sustains an injury. This occurs off-screen between the second and third seasons. As a result, Luca is absent for several episodes at the beginning of Season 3. The show’s narrative explains that he is recovering from hip surgery, which is why he is not participating in the team’s operations. During this time, the character is said to be rehabilitating and working on getting back to full fitness so he can return to active duty. Luca’s absence is felt by the team, but it also provides an opportunity for the show to explore the dynamics of the team as they adjust to temporary changes in their lineup. Kenny Johnson’s real-life knee surgery was the reason for this storyline, allowing him to recover while maintaining the continuity of the show.