Phoenix police officer dies days after being shot during a burglary call

A Phoenix police officer who was hospitalized in critical condition for days after being shot during a burglary call on Tuesday has died. The police chief says Officer Zane Coolidge put up a valiant fight despite the odds against him.

Authorities say Coolidge and Officer Matthew Haney responded on Tuesday night to a call of a man trying to break into a vehicle near 16th Street and McDowell Road. Coolidge and Haney were directed to the suspect, who took off running. The officers chased but were hit with gunfire. The suspect was later caught.

Haney and Coolidge were rushed to a hospital. Haney has since been released from the hospital and is recovering at home.

Coolidge was a five-year veteran of the Phoenix Police Department, a husband and father. In announcing Coolidge’s death late Friday, Interim Police Chief Michael Sullivan says Coolidge’s family will always be part of the Phoenix police family.

The Phoenix mayor and other officials also reacted to the news.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego

“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.

“Our police officers are the best of us. They put themselves in harm’s way every day to protect us, and this loss is a stark reminder that serving in uniform comes with immense risk—and sometimes, the ultimate sacrifice. We are actively working to ensure justice is served and will continue to support our first responders and law enforcement who uphold the law.”

Phoenix Interim Chief of Police Michael Sullivan

"Officer Coolidge was a husband, father, son, brother, friend, and a dedicated and beloved member of the Phoenix Police Department. Since Tuesday night’s shooting, Officer Coolidge put up a valiant fight, despite the odds being against him.

"He has been surrounded by loved ones and blanketed in the prayers of this community. The injuries he sustained after the cowardly acts of another were just too much for him to overcome. Officer Coolidge’s legacy will forever be a part of this Department.

"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.

"This is also a very trying time for our Department. We have felt the outpouring of support from our community over the past few days and we know that will remain unwavering. We will hold our heads up high and do our fallen colleague proud, by continuing to serve our community with the courage and integrity that is Phoenix Police Department."

Phoenix Law Enforcement Association President Darrell Kriplean

"We are devastated by the passing of Officer Zane Coolidge. A humble and selfless public servant, Officer Coolidge wore the badge with pride and honor. This is not an easy job; our officers wear the uniform each day and face the unknown. Officer Coolidge represented the best among us, upholding his oath to our community and putting service before self.

"Our thoughts are with Officer Coolidge's wife and young family, and we stand ready to help them through this difficult time."

This is a developing story. Please check back with kjzz.org for updates.