Two police officers in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, were shot and wounded Tuesday evening while responding to a vehicle break-in, with one officer in critical condition and the other stable, interim Police Chief Michael Sullivan announced.
The shooting occurred around 6:30 p.m. near downtown Phoenix when the officers responded to a call about an attempted vehicle break-in. Upon arrival, the suspect fled, jumping over a fence. The officers pursued and were met with gunfire, Sullivan said at a news conference hours after the incident.
One officer is listed in critical condition, while the other is stable, likely saved by his ballistic vest. Sullivan stated he had spoken to the officer in stable condition, describing him as “traumatized” after being shot and witnessing his partner’s shooting.
Police have detained one person in connection with the shooting. Sullivan assured the public that there is no immediate danger to the community. The names of the wounded officers have not been released.
It remains unclear whether the officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect. The detained individual was found near the scene, though Sullivan did not provide further details.
“This is a terrible night for the Phoenix Police Department and for those who love and care for officers and for members of our community,” Sullivan said. He added that the wounded officers were surrounded by family and loved ones at the hospital.
Sullivan expressed anger at the incident, noting that Phoenix police officers have faced gunfire 11 times this year while on duty. “What happened tonight is senseless. It angers me. I hope you share my anger,” he stated.
