Phoenix Police Tragedy: One Officer Dead, Another Wounded in Suspect’s Bold Escape

By Matthew Holloway |

In a tragic incident on Tuesday, September 3, one Phoenix Police officer has died and another is hospitalized in critical condition following a shooting involving a suspect. Officers Zane Coolidge and Matthew Haney responded to a report of a vehicle break-in around 6:30 p.m. Upon arrival, the suspect, 41-year-old Saul Bal, fled on foot before turning to fire at the officers, injuring both. Despite one officer’s attempt to return fire, Bal was not struck.

After the shooting, Bal was captured nearby. Both officers were transported to Banner University Medical Center; Officer Haney was stable, while Officer Coolidge fought for his life. Unfortunately, Coolidge succumbed to his injuries on Friday.

According to the Phoenix Police Department, Officer Haney was released from the hospital the following day, protected from more severe injuries by his ballistic vest. Interim Police Chief Michael Sullivan expressed the profound loss felt by the community, stating, “The injuries he sustained after the cowardly acts of another were too much for him to overcome.”

“Today our Department and community lost a great hero, Officer Zane Coolidge. Your courage, heart, and legacy will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, hero,” the department communicated via social media.

Saul Bal has been arrested and charged more than forty times over nearly two decades, with numerous convictions for crimes including attempted burglary and drug offenses. He was booked into Maricopa County Jail on multiple felony charges, including two counts of attempted murder, with a bond set at $2 million.

Darrell Kriplean, President of the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, voiced his anger over Bal’s continued presence in the community despite his extensive criminal history. “He has demonstrated that he’s a drain on society, not a positive influence,” he remarked.

While there is yet no information on additional charges against Bal following Officer Coolidge’s death, details from earlier reports reveal that Bal had recently been arrested for drug possession and trespassing. The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office had withheld charges pending lab test results, but no charges were filed despite field-tested substances found in Bal’s possession. He had previously served part of a sentence for drug-related offenses before his release in July.

Chief Sullivan has pledged support for Officer Coolidge’s family during this devastating period, asserting their commitment to standing by them as they navigate this immense loss. “I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers,” he concluded.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. For updates, follow him on X or send tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.