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Deputy Sheriff William Coleman was shot and killed while responding to a burglary
call in Anthem at approximately 4:15 am.
As he and another deputy arrived at the scene they encountered a male subject inside of a van at a medical building near the intersection of Anthem Way and Gavilan Peak Parkway. As they attempted to make contact with the man he opened fire on them with a rifle, striking Deputy Coleman below his vest. The suspect was killed by return gunfire from other deputies.
Deputy Coleman was transported to John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.
Deputy Coleman had served with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office for 20 years. He is survived by his wife and several children.
As he and another deputy arrived at the scene they encountered a male subject inside of a van at a medical building near the intersection of Anthem Way and Gavilan Peak Parkway. As they attempted to make contact with the man he opened fire on them with a rifle, striking Deputy Coleman below his vest. The suspect was killed by return gunfire from other deputies.
Deputy Coleman was transported to John C. Lincoln Deer Valley Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.
Deputy Coleman had served with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office for 20 years. He is survived by his wife and several children.
I found out about Bill's (Deputy Coleman's) death early Sunday morning from a friend on
Facebook and by text message. I had worked with Bill in District 2 (Buckeye/Gila Bend/Tonopah)
and on other details through out my career with the office. I had to reread it several times to
be sure I wasn't hallucinating. He was a good and decent man, and always a pleasure to talk
with. Anyone that had the privilege of knowing him is a better person for that. I had him roll up
on several of my stops over the years, especially when I was in SAU and worked in District 4
(Cave Creek/Carefree/Scottsdale). He was loved and respected by all who knew him in the
office and this was a punch to the stomach to say the least. This was the salt in the wound for
a depressing weekend having learned of the death of Badges member and friend Ron on
Friday. Perhaps counting the recent passing of Badges member Mike Martin. the rumor things
come in threes is true in this case.