Phoenix police officer dies following shooting in Laveen

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - A Phoenix police officer who was shot while responding to a burglary call on Wednesday has died.

During a press conference on Thursday, Phoenix Police Department Chief Joseph Yahner announced that Officer David Glasser, a 12-year veteran of the police department, died as a result of his injuries sustained in the shooting.

On Wednesday, police responded to reports of a burglary at a home near 51st Avenue and Baseline in Laveen.

Police say the homeowner called and reported that his son was stealing firearms from the home.

When officers arrived at the scene, they tried to make contact with the suspect, who was inside a van that was parked in the driveway.

The suspect then opened fire on police, hitting Ofc. Glasser. Officers fired back at the suspect, who was found dead inside the van.

Ofc. Glasser was immediately transported to a hospital in extremely critical condition.

Ofc. Glasser's family was flown by helicopter to the hospital and over 200 police officers were seen at the hospital.

Friends and family say Glasser grew up in the valley, attending Moon Valley High School and Arizona State University. He was a diehard member of the original "BirdGang" always supporting his beloved Cardinals.

Now it's the Cardinals reaching out to support the Glasser family with head coach Bruce Arians tweeting the family and adding that he will be remembered by all as one of the good guys.

"It broke my heart, I try not to get too emotional because of everything our police officers and emergency medical people do," he said. "Their families don't know if they're coming home, and they're the true heroes, not football players, they're not playing a game. Our hearts and prayers all go out to the Glasser family and just wish them all the support in this time."

Glasser was an organ donor and city leaders say he continues to serve.

"Dave served his community, and he continues to serve by donating his organs to people he doesn't even know. We lost a hero, we lost an outstanding member of our community. A father and great police officer, Dave was an inspiration to his co-workers and to this community," said Chief Yahner.

Glasser is the 38th Phoenix Police officer to die in the line of duty. The last officer to die before him was Detective John Hobbs, who was killed in March of 2014.

Near the scene of the shooting dozens have brought candles and flowers at a makeshift memorial. The Laveen community is rallying to support the fallen officer.

"You never want an officer to get shot or killed, or anybody, with everything going on these days they have to protect themselves and it does hit home," said one Laveen neighbor.

Arizona Flower Market planned to have a law enforcement appreciation event before Officer Glasser's death. Now the event has more meaning with proceeds from blue and white flowers being given to police charities.

Project Blue Light is also asking valley residents to light their homes with blue lights as a show of support.

Fox 10 would like to send our condolences to the entire family of Officer David Glasser.

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