Hero in Blue: Phoenix prepares to say final farewell to fallen officer, as support pours in for young family

Phoenix, Arizona: The community is preparing to give fallen Officer Zane Coolidge a hero's farewell. Coolidge died after being shot in the line of duty.

The tragic event unfolded last Tuesday, when 29-year-old Coolidge and his partner, Haney, were responding to reports of a suspect breaking into cars on McAllen and 16th Street. Both officers were shot during the response, but while Haney's ballistic vest saved him, Coolidge sustained fatal injuries.

A private funeral for Coolidge is set to take place on Wednesday at 10am at Dream City Church. While the funeral itself will be closed to the public, community members are encouraged to line the streets along the funeral procession route, which starts at 16th Street and Bell Road and stretches down Cave Creek Road.

In addition to the procession, a vigil is scheduled for Tuesday night at Mountain View Precinct, where Coolidge served as a field training officer. The 8pm event will provide another opportunity for the community to honor his memory.

His death has prompted numerous tributes, including barbecues, benefits, and a fundraiser that has already raised over $72,000 for his family. Officer Coolidge leaves behind his wife and their 5-month-old daughter.

Those wishing to support Officer Coolidge’s family can do so here.