Phoenix officer shot multiple times in armed robbery released from hospital

PHOENIX - A Phoenix Police officer who was shot multiple times by the suspects of an armed robbery has been released from the hospital.

The incident happened at around 11:30 p.m. on March 29, when the officer responded to a report of people trying to rob a parked vehicle near Southern Avenue and 35th Avenue.

Officials identified the officer as Harold Boswell on April 3. They said he was recovering at his home.

"We had an officer who was violently attacked while truly doing his job and not just attacked but ambushed," Police chief Michael Sullivan said in a press conference. "He was ambushed as he was going to try to help folk who were being preyed upon and robbed, putting himself in harms way."

One of the suspects reportedly armed with a handgun fired multiple rounds in the direction of the officer as he approached the group.

According to a report, the officer was struck multiple times and never discharged his own weapon.

The suspects fled from the scene before other officers were able to arrive. The officer shot was taken to the hospital and is reportedly in stable condition.

Police said the officer was off duty but in uniform, and clearly identified himself as a police officer.

Officer in good spirits, per PD

On Monday afternoon, police cars lined the roadway near the hospital where the officer was at. With his family by his side, nearly 100 people applauded the officer.

According to Phoenix Police Executive Assistant Chief Derek Elmore, the officer is in good spirits, mainly accrediting that to his supporting family.

Officials have yet to release the officer's identity at this time, due to concerns for his and his family's safety.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Phoenix Police Department or to call Silent Witness at 480-(WITNESS) or 480-(TESTIGO) and provide an anonymous tip.