One officer released from hospital after shooting involving Phoenix police; second still in critical condition

PHOENIX (AZ family) — One police officer is fighting for his life, while a second officer has been released from the hospital following a police shooting in central Phoenix on Tuesday.

A suspect, later identified as Saul Bal, 41, was arrested and is now charged with attempted homicide.

The incident began near 16th Street and McDowell Road shortly before 6:30 p.m., when Phoenix Police Chief Michael Sullivan said two officers responded to calls that someone had broken into a vehicle. When officers arrived, the suspect fled and jumped a fence, Sullivan said.

“The police gave chase and were met with gunfire,” he said.

Both officers were shot and rushed to Banner University Medical Center, a few blocks from the scene.

“One officer was saved by his bulletproof vest,” Sullivan said. That officer is in stable condition and was released from the hospital Wednesday night.

His partner remains in critical condition.

One of the officers has been with the department for five years and the other has two years of experience with the PPD.

“I ask the community to keep the officers and their families in their thoughts and prayers. I would also like to express my gratitude to the men and women of the Phoenix Police Department who, even in the face of danger, are committed to keeping this community safe,” said Interim Police Chief Michael Sullivan.

Both officers are assigned to the Mountain View police station.

“The support we have received from the public and community partners has been unwavering. We appreciate the thoughts and encouragement we have given to our officers as they continue their work, knowing that one of their own is still in the hospital,” said Leif Myers, Commander of the Mountain View Police Department.

PLEA Charities has organized a donation drive for those wishing to help officers and their families. Click/tap here to donate.

Donors can indicate “Phoenix Critical Incident” in the name field and 100% of donations will be given directly to the officers and their families. PLEA covers all administrative costs.

Donations are also accepted through the Phoenix Police Foundation. Click/tap here to donate through PPF.

Police said an officer returned fire, but Bal was not hit. Bal then fled on foot, but nearby officers were able to stop him.

Investigators collected evidence throughout the night and into the early morning. Detectives found a firearm that appears to be the one used by Bal.

Bal was booked into the Maricopa County Jail on multiple charges, including two counts of attempted murder. His cash bail was set at $2 million. Police say Bal has a violent criminal history.

“It’s a miracle that he’s still here and it’s a testament to his fight,” said Darrell Kriplean, president of the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association. “He’s a young officer, you know, I can’t imagine what his family is going through.”

Kriplean also provided an update on the other officer who was injured.

“We were told last night that the vest stopped the bullet, but in fact the bullet was able to enter his rib cage because it went between two panels,” he explained. “So he's still in the hospital because the bullet is still in him.”

“The officers are surrounded by their family and loved ones and we ask that you keep everyone affected by this cowardly act in your thoughts and prayers,” Sullivan said as he addressed members accompanied by city and county leaders outside the hospital.

The outpouring of support for the deaths of two people who protect and serve this community has been overwhelming.

Video captured by the Family News helicopter in Arizona showed tape surrounding a parking lot in the area. A heavy police presence was also seen in neighborhoods near 16th Street and McDowell Road, just west of Highway 51.

“This tragic event is a sad reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face every day as they work tirelessly to keep our community safe,” said District 6 Councilman Kevin Robinson. “I call on all residents to support not only these officers, but all members of our police force who continue to serve with courage and dedication.”

Kriplean released a statement after the shooting, calling Bal a “cowardly career criminal” and the situation “heartbreaking.” He said it’s frustrating to see violence against law enforcement become more common.

“We hear every day about police officers being shot and we wonder what it will take to stop this madness,” Kriplean told Arizona's Family.

Kriplean also expressed anger that someone like Bal is present in the community despite serious criminal convictions.

“I don't really want to talk about the suspect because he doesn't deserve our attention, but I can tell you it's infuriating that someone with a long criminal history like his is allowed to be out in the community and continue, I mean he's demonstrated that he's a burden on society, not a positive influence,” Kriplean said.

Governor Katie Hobbs said on X, formerly known as Twitterthat she was devastated when she heard about the shooting.

“My thoughts are with the officers, their families and all law enforcement at this time,” she said.

She added that the Arizona Department of Public Safety was prepared to assist in the investigation.

“My prayers go out to the two injured Phoenix police officers and their families,” Maricopa County District Attorney Rachel Mitchell said on social media.

Records show Bal has been convicted of attempted burglary and drug crimes in other parts of the state since 2007. He is also not allowed to own a firearm.

Parole from a previous conviction was due to expire Thursday.

This is the 39th officer-involved shooting in Maricopa County this year and the 66th officer-involved shooting statewide.

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