Phoenix Police Officer Dies after On-Duty Medical Emergency

A Phoenix police officer died from an on-duty medical event, a day after another officer died at home.

Phoenix Police Officer Mark Aker suffered a fatal medical emergency while he was on duty Wednesday, the department stated in a social media post. He was not on a call at the time, a police spokesperson told KTVK-TV.

Aker had been with the department since 1994. He was assigned to the Maryvale Estrella Mountain Precinct.

“The Phoenix Law Enforcement Association is heartbroken over the unexpected loss of Officer Mark Aker yesterday. Darrell Kriplean, president of the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, said in a statement. "For nearly 30 years, Officer Aker served the citizens of Phoenix with the utmost integrity and dedication. “We grieve with his family and ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”

A day earlier, Sgt. Tim Wheeler died from a medical crisis at his home. He joined the department in 2007 and was assigned to the Desert Horizon Precinct, according to the department.

In a statement, Kriplean said Wheeler served the department "with dedication and courage."