The Phoenix community continues to reel from the tragic loss of Officer Zane Coolidge of the Phoenix Police Department, who was fatally shot on Sept. 3 while responding to a car break-in. Officer Coolidge, just 29 years old, left behind a grieving wife and their 5-month-old baby. In the wake of Officer Coolidge's death, the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association (PLEA) and the Phoenix Police Foundation have been rallying for support to aid his family during this challenging time.
On Sept. 10, PLEA organized an all-day BBQ fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at their office location, where the community turned out in strong numbers, enduring the blazing heat, to donate. Fox 10 Phoenix reported that people lined up early to offer financial support, with organizers anticipating between 2,000 and 3,000 people dropping donations in the bucket by the event's end.
"It's not uncommon. A couple of officers will decide this is not the career for them because they do not want their family to have to suffer like Zane's family is suffering," Darrell Kriplean, PLEA president, told Fox 10 Phoenix. Attendees consumed warm meals while sharing stories and bolstering each other's spirits.
In addition to the BBQ event, the Phoenix Police Foundation has established a donation page dedicated to Officer Coolidge's family, assuring that 100% of the proceeds will go directly to them, as reported by AZFamily. Meanwhile, Chief Michael Sullivan reflected on the department’s loss and the inherent risks of police work during an appearance on Good Morning Arizona. "Just continue to keep us in our prayers. And think about every officer out there on the street," he implored.
The suspect in the fatal shooting has been identified as 41-year-old Saul Bal, who, after shooting officers Coolidge and Matthew Haney, has seen his charges escalated to first-degree murder against a law enforcement officer. Bal has a prior conviction history, including attempted burglary and drug-related offenses in various parts of the state. Officer Haney, who was also injured during the incident, has since been released from the hospital and is recovering at home.
