Marking the one-year anniversary of his tragic death, Phoenix inaugurated a memorial for fallen officer Zane Coolidge, who lost his life in the line of duty. The ceremony, hosted on McDowell Road near the spot where the 29-year-old officer was shot while responding to a call, drew members of the community and law enforcement peers to pay their respects. According to FOX 10 Phoenix, Phoenix Police Sgt. Phil Krynsky encapsulated the sentiment, "It's very touching for us because, again, it's just such a young man. He was working hard, he was a great officer."
During the incident that led to Coolidge's death, he and his partner Officer Matthew Haney were responding to an attempted car break-in, when they were both shot. Officer Haney fortunately recovered from his injuries, but, Coolidge succumbed to his wounds three days later. Phoenix Police Commander Leif Myers shared with FOX 10 Phoenix, "He knew that he gave both, but he gave everything to that family and everything to that little girl," reflecting on Coolidge's role as a husband and father to a then-5-month-old child. The memorial marker, now the 43rd to be established, commemorates his sacrifice and is positioned on McDowell Road, just east of 16th Street.
In alignment with the annual tradition of honoring fallen officers before National Police Week events, this year the city added Officer Coolidge's marker. Additional details about the markers throughout the Valley can be found on the Phoenix Police Department's website, which hosts a full list, thereby offering an enduring tribute to those who have fallen in the line of duty. For those looking to further understand the significance of these memorials, the Phoenix Police Department's podcast "The Call Box" released an episode specifically about the markers on Aug. 31, which is available for public listening, as per 12 News.
The city's gesture and the newly installed marker serve as a tangible reminder of the lives given in service to the community. Phoenix Police Chaplain Rob Fesmire during the ceremony stated, "For all who pass this marker, may they be reminded of all those courageous people who reflect you in their continued service and sacrifice," as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix. In keeping with supporting families of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, the Phoenix Police Department endorses donating to the 100 Club of Arizona, which provides assistance to the survivors of fallen officers.
Reflecting on the dire circumstances that led to Coolidge's death, the suspect, Saul Bal, engaged in a confrontation with the officers after attempting to break into a car. Despite fleeing initially, Bal was apprehended hours later by authorities and remains detained on a $2 million cash-only bond. Facing serious charges including murder and aggravated assault, this case, as reported by 12 News, continues through the judicial process, with Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announcing an indictment by grand jury.
