Goodyear police, fire praised for regional support during large funeral at State Farm Stadium

Goodyear city leaders on Sept. 22 publicly thanked police and fire personnel for assisting at a major funeral held the prior day at State Farm Stadium. City officials said the event drew high-level dignitaries and large crowds; mutual aid requests from Glendale Police required Goodyear to deploy personnel across multiple roles.

Police Chief Brian Nissid said the department deployed more than 50 officers in capacities that included SWAT support, perimeter and motorcade security, traffic control, mobile field force preparedness and explosive-ordinance detection. He said Goodyear officers also worked as threat liaisons with the United States Secret Service and that executive staff remained on site throughout the operation. "This event showcased not only the professionalism of our department, but Goodyear's ability to support any major, regional operation at the highest level of public safety," Nissid said.

Deputy Fire Chief Ed Paul said Fire Department units — including hazardous-material teams, an emergency manager, public information and command teams — deployed under the region's automatic-aid arrangements. He said the deployment reflected training and coordination with Valley partners.

Mayor Pizzillo and the city manager publicly lauded the departments for their preparation and performance. City officials said there were no major incidents tied to Goodyear deployments and praised interagency coordination for the large-scale operation that involved an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 people attempting to attend.