Phoenix Police Officer Zane Coolidge was tragically killed in the line of duty this week while responding to a call about an attempted vehicle break-in.

Interim Phoenix Police Chief Michael Sullivan announced Officer Coolidge’s passing, describing the deep sorrow felt by the department and the community.

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“Officer Coolidge’s family is dealing with unimaginable grief. We will do everything we can to help them through their darkest hours, and we pledge that they will always be a part of the Phoenix Police Family. I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers,” Chief Sullivan said in a statement.

X Screenshot – Phoenix Police

Officer Coolidge, a five-year veteran of the Phoenix Police Department, was known for his dedication to the community and his role as a certified Field Training Officer in the Mountain View Precinct. He trained new recruits fresh out of the academy, passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of officers. His commitment to serving Phoenix was clear to all who knew him.

The fatal incident occurred on Tuesday evening near 16th Street and McDowell. Officer Coolidge and his partner, Officer Matthew Haney, were responding to a call about a man attempting to break into a vehicle.

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When the officers approached, the suspect fled on foot and opened fire, striking both officers. Officer Haney was protected by his ballistic vest and was released from the hospital the following day. Officer Coolidge, however, sustained critical injuries that he could not overcome.

“Officer Coolidge has been surrounded by loved ones and blanketed in the prayers of this community since Tuesday night’s shooting,” said Chief Sullivan. “The injuries he sustained after the cowardly acts of another were too much for him to overcome. His legacy will forever be a part of the Phoenix Police Department.”

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego also expressed her sorrow over Officer Coolidge’s death, saying, “I am devastated by the tragic loss of Officer Zane Coolidge, who lost his life while keeping the rest of us safe from harm. I know that our entire community is mourning this loss, and on behalf of the City, I extend my deepest condolences to Officer Coolidge’s family and friends, and his brothers and sisters in the Phoenix Police Department. We will forever honor and remember his bravery and selfless service to our community.”

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The suspect in the shooting was apprehended by responding officers and is currently in custody. The details surrounding the suspect’s identity and charges have not yet been released.

City Manager Jeff Barton added to the outpouring of support, stating, “This is a sad day for the City of Phoenix as we mourn the loss of one of our own. Our hearts go out to the family of Officer Coolidge. Our City grieves with you. Your husband, brother, son, and father died a hero, unselfishly sacrificing his life to fulfill his duty to protect and serve.”

Officer Coolidge leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife and children. His death marks a painful reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty. Officer Coolidge’s service and sacrifice will be remembered by his colleagues and the Phoenix community he dedicated his life to protecting.

Plans for memorial services to honor Officer Coolidge will be announced in the coming days.

Original article below:

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In a tragic incident that shook the Phoenix community, two police officers were shot and wounded while responding to a suspected car break-in near downtown Phoenix on the evening of September 3, around 6:30 p.m.

The violent confrontation occurred near 15th Street and McDowell Road, prompting a massive law enforcement response.

Interim Phoenix Police Chief Michael Sullivan detailed the harrowing events during a late-night news conference.

Interim Phoenix police Chief Michael Sullivan explains that the two officers shot on Sept. 3, 2024, were responding to a suspected car theft in central Phoenix.

 

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He explained that the officers had been dispatched following reports of a car burglary. Upon their arrival, the suspect fled the scene, jumping a fence. The officers pursued the suspect, who then turned and fired on them.

“One of our officers was saved by his ballistic vest and is in stable condition. The second officer is currently fighting for his life in critical condition,” Chief Sullivan disclosed to the gathered press.

The dire circumstances of the shooting underscore the dangers law enforcement officers face in the line of duty.

The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Saul Bal, was apprehended later in the evening, around 9 p.m., not far from the crime scene.

He has been detained and faces multiple charges, including attempted murder.

Following his capture, an extensive perimeter was established, spanning several blocks as police, supported by armed law enforcement and K-9 units, conducted a thorough search of the area to ensure no additional threats were present.

Phoenix police officers block McDowell Road as the department said two officers were injured after an officer involved shooting near 16th Street and McDowell Road on Sept. 3, 2024.

Chief Sullivan expressed deep frustration and anger over the shooting, highlighting the risks his officers endure while safeguarding the community. “Our officers have been met by gunfire 11 times this year protecting and serving this community,” he stated, emphasizing the frequency and gravity of such violent encounters.

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“This is a terrible night for the Phoenix Police Department, for those who love and care for our officers, and for members of our community,” he added, reflecting on the broader impact of the incident on the city.

Video footage from the scene showed the tense aftermath as law enforcement officials scoured the neighborhoods, ensuring the safety of residents and searching for any further suspects.

The community was left reeling from the violence, with many expressing their support and concern for the injured officers.

As the investigation continues, the Phoenix Police Department is rallying around its members, particularly the officer whose life hangs in the balance.