Officer Zane Coolidge ‘represented the best of the department,’ colleagues report
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Phoenix City Hall officials about 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, shared Police Chief Michael Sullivan’s announcement of the passing of Officer Zane Coolidge, who was tragically shot and killed in the line of duty.
“Officer Coolidge’s family is dealing with unimaginable grief,” Chief Sullivan said when sharing the news of Officer Coolidge’s passing. “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.”
Officer Coolidge was a husband, father, son, brother, friend, and a dedicated and beloved member of the Phoenix Police Department.
“I am devastated by the tragic loss of Officer Zane Coolidge, who lost his life while keeping the rest of us safe from harm,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.
“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.”
On Tuesday evening, Officer Coolidge was with Officer Matthew Haney when they responded to a call of a man trying to break into a vehicle near 16th Street and McDowell. When they approached the man, he ran off, firing at the officers, hitting them both. The officers were rushed to the hospital, while others responded and took the suspect into custody.
Officer Haney was released from the hospital the next day, protected from more serious injury by his ballistic vest.
“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.”
Officer Coolidge served five years with the Phoenix Police Department. He represents the best of the local police department, working as a certified field training officer in the Mountain View Precinct, training those who have just graduated the academy.
“This is a sad day for the city of Phoenix as we mourn the loss of one of our own,” said City Manager Jeff Barton. “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.”
