PHOENIX- Two Phoenix Police Officers were shot and one is fighting for his life after Phoenix Police say 41-year-old Saul Bal shot both officers during a foot chase.
On Tuesday, September 3, 2024, around 6:25 p.m., officers were dispatched to an emergency call regarding a burglary near 16th Street and McDowell Road just before 6:30 p.m. As officers attempted to make contact with the suspect, he fled, prompting a foot pursuit. During the chase, the suspect opened fire, striking both officers, Phoenix Police wrote in a statement.
“Officers gave chase and were met with gunfire,” said Interim Chief Sullivan during a press conference.
“Both officers were rushed to Banner University Medical Center with injuries from gunfire,” he continued.
“We are committed to completing a thorough investigation, and holding all those accountable for this heinous act,” said Interim Chief Sullivan.
One officer was saved by his ballistic vest and is in stable condition and was released Wednesday evening from the hospital.
The second officer is fighting for his life and is in critical condition at Banner University Medical Center.
Police arrested Saul Bal, 41, who is suspected to have shot the two police officers. Bal, a felon with a violent record including charges in Navajo County, was charged today with attempted homicide, weapons violations and burglary.
Bal appeared in court today and said, “They’re saying I shot at them/him or something like that but I didn’t have a gun.” The judge reminded Bal of his right to remain silent.
The charges from Navajo County began in 2007 and then in 2023. The 2007 charges from Taylor, AZ consist of DISORD CONDUCT-WEAPON/INSTR, UNLAW USE OF MEANS OF TRANSP, AGGRAVATED ASLT-DEADLY WEAPON/DANG INST (Dismissed), CRIMINAL DAMAGEDEFACE (Dismissed), BURGLARY 2ND DEG.
The 2023 Navajo County charges are DRUG PARAPHERNALIA-POSSESS/USE F6 and SHOPLIFTING-REMOVAL OF GOODS.
Also, Bal faced a Navajo County divorce and child support case in 2006.
The Arizona Department of Corrections shows Navajo County as the sentencing county in 2008 and in 2023.
Bal has been on supervised probation since July and it was set to expire tomorrow.
Bal has spent his fair share of time behind bars and after yesterdays horrific incident its possible, if found guilty, he will spend the rest of his life behind bars, where he belongs.
Operation Blue Ribbon is asking the public to tie blue ribbons in support of our men and women in blue.
The Phoenix Police Foundation is asking for donations to help the two officers. And as always the 100 Club is ready to assist our first responders.
Mountain Daily Star staff sends prayers and sincere concern for both injured Phoenix Police Officers. We back the blue and will always stand steadfast with our hearts on our sleeves for our police and first responders.