Two Phoenix officers died this week from “medical events,” and the Phoenix Police Foundation is raising money to assist their families.

Officer Mark Aker passed away from a medical event on duty on May 10, and Sgt. Tim Wheeler died at home on May 9, according to the Phoenix Police Department.

Aker joined the department in 1994 and was assigned to the Maryvale Estrella Mountain Precinct. Wheeler joined the department in 2007 and was assigned to the Desert Horizon Precinct. 

“We are mourning the loss of two dedicated officers and community members,” Timothy Thomas, president of the Phoenix Police Foundation, said.

“Unexpected losses like these are extremely difficult on the families so we want to help ease the financial burden in any way we can. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of Sergeant Wheeler and Officer Aker.”

Officials of the foundation, a nonprofit organization that addresses unmet capital needs of the Phoenix Police Department, ensure contributors who aid in funeral and other family expense will have 100% of all their donations go directly to the families.

To donate: phoenixpolicefoundation.org/officer-assistance.