Crime
41-year-old Saul Bal arrested and charged for allegedly shooting two Phoenix police officers
The shooting occurred around 6:25 p.m. in the area of Banner Medical Center.
A man accused of shooting and critically injuring two Phoenix police officers on Tuesday night has been arrested.
The suspect, identified as 41-year-old Saul Bal, was apprehended following a brief chase near 16th Street and McDowell Road.
The shooting occurred around 6:25 p.m. in the area of Banner Medical Center.
Police officers observed Bal breaking into a vehicle and attempted to detain him. Bal fled on foot and, during the pursuit, shot at the officers, striking both of them.
He was subsequently arrested nearby.
The injured officers were immediately transported to the hospital. One officer remains in critical condition, while the other is in stable condition.
Mayor Kate Gallego expressed her support for the officers and their families, noting that the proximity to Banner Medical Center provided swift medical attention.
Phoenix Police Chief Mike Sullivan condemned the shooting, highlighting the increasing frequency of officer-involved shootings in the city.
He stated that this was the 11th incident of its kind this year. Bal faces two attempted murder charges and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing.
Christian County, Mo. — A deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office was fatally shot during a traffic stop along State Highway 160 near Highlandville, prompting the issuance of a statewide Blue Alert.
Authorities have since confirmed that the suspect has not been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck when the suspect opened fire.
The deputy was struck during the encounter and later died from his injuries.
Following the shooting, the suspect fled the scene traveling southbound on Highway 160.
A Blue Alert was issued to warn the public and assist in locating the suspect vehicle, described as a black pickup truck with silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball hitch.
The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
Authorities advised the public not to approach the vehicle if spotted and to call 911 immediately, providing as much information as possible while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is located just south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area frequently traveled by residents and visitors to the Ozarks.
Law enforcement agencies across the region coordinated efforts to apprehend the suspect, who was ultimately located and taken into custody.
Officials have not yet released additional details regarding the circumstances of the arrest.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities have expressed condolences to the deputy’s family, colleagues, and the broader community as they mourn the loss of a fallen officer.