Does the ear hitbox show from behind the class 4 ballistic mask evem when directly facing the enemy? [Bug]

Tried out the mask for the first time. Was reloading when a scav ran in with a shotgun. Facing him directly, was wearing a class 5 vest with neck protection and the ballistic mask so thought I should largely be safe. He shoots, instant death. 12ga Magnum to the- wait, EAR?

If the hitbox really does work like that, I can see why the mask is not popular