Phoenix officer injured in shooting honored at college basketball game

PHOENIX — A Phoenix police officer shot by a car prowling suspect in September was honored by fans and players during Thursday’s Grand Canyon University men’s basketball game. 

Officer Matthew Haney received a standing ovation as he stood on center court with his wife and child, holding an honorary game ball. 

“They gave us a chance to honor a hero, Matthew Haney, who really sacrificed himself several months ago and was shot in the line of duty,” said Phoenix Police Interim Chief Michael Sullivan. 

It was Sept. 3 when Haney and his partner, officer Zane Coolidge, were investigating a car break-in near 16th Street and McDowell Road.

The two chased after the suspect, Saul Bal, who police say started shooting at the officers, hitting them both. 

Officer Coolidge died from his injuries at the hospital days later — leaving behind a loving family, including his wife and 5-month-old daughter. 

Officer Haney continues to recover and has since returned to work on “light duty.” 

“As chief, I get to see the love that this community has for us very, very frequently,” Sullivan said. “Many times, the men and women that do the hard work every single day don’t get to see it; It’s great for them to be able to feel that love.”

Thursday was “Hometown Heroes” night at GCU — a fitting title for Haney and a reminder of the risk men and women of law enforcement take every time they put on a uniform. 

“Those are scars that don’t heal easily and they probably never will,” Sullivan said. “But we go on because we have a very important mission to complete.”

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