In the spring of 2016, a domestic call in Phoenix, Arizona, escalated into a tragedy that claimed the life of a dedicated police officer. David Van Glasser, a 34-year-old male officer with the Phoenix Police Department, succumbed to gunshot wounds on May 19, 2016, a day after responding to a burglary in progress. He had served on the force for 12 years and was part of the Neighborhood Enforcement Team.
The incident unfolded on May 18 when a homeowner in the vicinity of 51st Avenue and
Baseline Road called 911 to report that his adult son was actively stealing items from the residence. Officer Glasser and his fellow officers arrived at the scene to find the suspect seated in a van parked in the driveway. Without warning, the man opened fire on the approaching officers.
In the ensuing chaos, Officer Glasser was struck by the gunfire. His colleagues immediately returned fire, and the suspect was fatally wounded at the scene. Officer Glasser was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he passed away from his injuries the following day.
Officer Glasser was a husband and a father of two. The man who shot him was identified as the homeowner's son. He was killed by the other officers on the scene, and therefore, no arrests were made in connection with Officer Glasser's death.
