Suspect arrested after shooting two police officers in Phoenix

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — One officer is in critical condition and the other is stable following a police-involved shooting in downtown Phoenix on Tuesday. One man has since been arrested and faces charges.

The shooting occurred near 16th Street and McDowell Road shortly before 6:30 p.m. Phoenix Police Chief Michael Sullivan said the two officers were responding to a vehicle burglary.

When officers arrived, the suspect, later identified as 41-year-old Saul Bal, ran and jumped over a fence, Sullivan said.

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

Both officers were shot and taken to Banner University Medical Center, just blocks from the crime scene.

“One officer was saved thanks to his bulletproof vest,” said Sullivan. The officer’s condition is stable.

His partner remains in critical condition.

According to police, an officer returned fire, but Bal was not hit. Bal then fled the scene on foot, but was arrested by officers nearby.

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

An arrest warrant was issued against Bal for several serious crimes, including two counts of attempted murder.

The homicide squad has taken over the investigation, which is still ongoing and covers a large crime scene.

Helicopter video obtained by Arizona’s Family News showed a parking lot in the area cordoned off with police tape. A heavy police presence was also seen in neighborhoods near 16th Street and McDowell Road, just west of State Route 51.

There were extensive road closures, but these were completely lifted early Wednesday morning.

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 the entire police community at this time,” she said.

She added that the Arizona Department of Public Safety is ready 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 posted on social media.

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

This is breaking news. Check back later for updates.

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