Latest news with #OfficerFacio
Yahoo
17 hours ago
- Yahoo
Apache Junction Police officer, Gabriel Facio, dies following June 2 shooting
The Brief Apache Junction Police officer Gabriel Facio has died six days after he was shot by a road rage suspect. During his time in the hospital, many in the community rallied around him, the department and his family. Facio was with the department for three years. PHOENIX - Officer Gabriel Facio of the Apache Junction Police Department has died days after he was shot in the face during an incident with a road rage suspect. What they're saying "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. He was a beloved father, husband, son, brother, friend and police officer who showed his passion for people through his service to others," said Apache Junction PD Chief Michael Pooley said on June 8. A procession was held for Officer Facio just hours after his death. His body was taken from Apache Junction to the Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office in downtown Phoenix. Streets were lined with members of law enforcement and the community to pay their respects to the fallen officer. Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller responded to the news, saying, in part, "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, and his sacrifice will not be in vain." Click to open this PDF in a new window. The backstory Officer Facio was shot in the face on June 2 by an alleged road rage suspect. The suspect has since been identified as 37-year-old Roger Nunez, and the shooting reportedly happened after he was pulled over in the area of Ironwood Drive and Elliot Road. "The male was not complying with our verbal directions. We attempted less lethal ammunition towards him to try to gain compliance. At that time, he brandished his firearm and fired at police officers. They returned fire, striking him as well as one of our officers was struck by his gunfire towards us," Apache Junction Police said in a previous statement.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Yahoo
Gabriel Facio: Community rallies around wounded Apache Junction police officer
The Brief Apache Junction police officer Gabriel Facio remains hospitalized after he was shot while on duty. The shooting happened on June 2 during a traffic stop attempt. The community is ralling around Officer Facio and his family. PHOENIX - Five days after a shooting incident that sent an Apache Junction police officer to the hospital, the officer is still fighting for his life. The backstory The incident happened on June 2 near Ironwood Drive and Elliot Road when police attempted a traffic stop. Someone reported having seen someone inside a car with a gun, fearing a possible road rage incident was about to unfold. The suspect, identified by police as 37-year-old Roger Nunez, reportedly got out of his car during the stop. "The male was not complying with our verbal directions. We attempted less lethal ammunition towards him to try to gain compliance. At that time, he brandished his firearm and fired at police officers. They returned fire, striking him as well as one of our officers was struck by his gunfire towards us," Apache Junction Police said. The officer, Gabriel Facio, was rushed to the hospital in life-threatening condition after he was shot in the face. He's been with AJPD for three years. Latest Updates While there is no update on Officer Facio's condition as of June 7, support continues to pour out. Blue ribbons are tied around light posts in one of the hospital's parking lots. The 100 Club of Arizona stepped in after the shooting happened, providing financial resources for the family, including help with travel expenses for out-of-town loved ones and meals while they sit at his bedside. Melissa Kowalski, the CEO of the 100 Club of Arizona, said the Apache Junction residents and the police department are close-knit, making this such a hard time for the entire community, and the hope remains that he pulls through. What Kowalski Said "Officer Facio is incredibly loved. I've been able to talk with a lot of different officers with the department and share stories of him and their favorite things about him and being able to interact with some of his family as well, you just can tell what an incredible officer he is," said Kowalski. What you can do Apache Junction Police officials are hosting a barbecue fundraiser in partnership with Mesa and Scottsdale FOP lodges at noon on June 11 at Apache Junction High School.
