Phoenix Police mourning loss of 2 officers: 'Utterly heartbroken'

PHOENIX - The Phoenix Police Department is mourning the loss of two of its officers.

Officer John Wing

The department said on Wednesday that Officer John Wing passed away on Feb. 5. According to the Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office, Wing died by suicide.

Wing had been with Phoenix Police since May 21, 2007, and was assigned to the Cactus Park Precinct.

Wing leaves behind a wife and six children.

A GoFundMe has been established on behalf of Wing's family. You can donate by clicking here.

"Please keep his family, friends, and co-workers in your thoughts," the department said. "Rest in Peace Officer Wing, you will be dearly missed."

If you or a loved one is feeling distressed, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The crisis center provides free and confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, seven days a week to civilians and veterans. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. Or text 741-741.

See here for the warning signs and risk factors of suicide. Call 1-800-273-TALK for free and confidential emotional support.

Officer Ben Denham

On Thursday, Phoenix Police announced the death of a second officer. Officer Ben Denham passed away on Feb. 8.

Denham joined Phoenix Police on July 22, 2022, and was assigned to the Airport Bureau as a K-9 officer.

"We are utterly heartbroken to announce the passing of a second officer in a matter of days," the department said. "Please keep his family, friends, and co-workers in your thoughts. Rest in peace Officer Denham, you will be dearly missed."

Denham is survived by his wife and four children.

Denham's K-9 partner, Hera, is now retired and lives with the officer's family.

According to a GoFundMe, Denham passed away from a rare combination of autoimmune diseases. You can donate to the GoFundMe, which benefits Denham's family, by clicking here.