Just weeks after a Phoenix man was caught on video brutally assaulting a female officer, the city has now seen its first officer killed in the line of duty this year, underscoring the daily risks faced by law enforcement and the urgent need to support those who keep our communities safe.
As reported by ABC 15 Arizona, Apache Junction Police Officer Gabriel Facio died Sunday, June 8th, after being shot while responding to a call about an armed man. Officer Facio had served with the department for nearly four years, dedicating his life to protecting the community.
The incident unfolded on Monday in the area of Ironwood Drive and Elliot Road. Officers arrived on the scene to find a man armed and refusing to comply with commands. Officers tried to use less-lethal means to de-escalate the situation, but the suspect opened fire. Officer Facio was critically wounded during the exchange and rushed to the hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries.
The suspect, identified as a 37-year-old man, was also wounded in the shootout and taken to the hospital. Authorities say he will now face upgraded charges, including homicide.
This killing marks the first death of a police officer in the Valley this year, a tragic reminder of the dangers officers face every day.
“It is with a broken heart I inform you of the passing of Officer Gabriel Facio today at noon. On behalf of the men and women of the Apache Junction Police Department, we appreciate the support and outpouring of love from the community. A little piece of us was lost as Officer Facio took his last breath surrounded by family and friends,” responded Apache Junction Police Chief Michael Pooley as he shared the devastating news.
Chief Pooley described Officer Facio as a devoted father, husband, son, brother, and friend: a man who dedicated himself to helping others.
He also praised the officer’s courage and resilience during the ordeal. “Since Monday’s critical incident, he showed remarkable strength and resilience. Surrounded by loved ones and lifted by the strength of your prayers from both near and far, he held on as long as he could,” Chief Pooley said.
Tragically, Officer Facio’s injuries were too severe to recover from, and the department lost one of its own to a senseless act of violence.
"Officer Facio’s impact on this department and community will never be forgotten. His service, spirit, and sacrifice will remain part of our story forever,” Chief Pooley added.
In response to the tragedy, Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller issued a statement promising justice for Officer Facio’s death. “It is with a heavy heart that I share my deepest condolences on the tragic loss of Officer Gabriel Facio, who was killed in the line of duty while serving and protecting our community,” Miller said.
“This senseless act has shaken us to our core. Officer Facio died doing what he had sworn to do — keeping others safe. His courage and selflessness will never be forgotten.”
Miller vowed to pursue charges against the suspect to the fullest extent of the law. “We owe that to Officer Facio, to his loved ones, to the Apache Junction Police Department, and to every member of our community who depends on the rule of law,” he said.
The loss of Officer Facio has touched not only Apache Junction but law enforcement across the state.
Acting Phoenix Police Chief Dennis Orender said, “The Phoenix Police Department extends our deepest condolences to the Apache Junction Police Department and their community on the loss of Officer Gabriel Facio. Officer Facio began his law enforcement career with the Phoenix Police Department, and many of our officers served alongside him.”
As the community grieves, a BBQ fundraiser will be held on Wednesday, June 11, at Apache Junction High School from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. to support Officer Facio’s family.
Tragedies like that which befell Officer Facio highlight the continued need for police and other responders to have access to effective tactical vestments that can keep them protected as they face unknown dangers out in the field.
Officer Facio’s service, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten. His family, friends, and colleagues will carry on his legacy of honor and integrity. May he rest in peace.
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