APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. – June 8, 2025 — The Apache Junction community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Officer Gabriel Facio, a three-year veteran of the Apache Junction Police Department who succumbed to injuries sustained in the line of duty. He died Sunday afternoon following a tragic shooting that stemmed from a traffic stop earlier in the week.
Officer Facio, 46, was critically wounded Monday during a confrontation with an armed suspect following a road rage report near Ironwood Drive and Ray Avenue. Despite emergency medical efforts and days of intensive care, he passed away surrounded by family, friends, and fellow officers.
“He loved everything about the city of Apache Junction,” said Police Chief Michael Pooley during an emotional press conference. “More than anything, he loved putting this uniform on every single day. He was proud to serve.”
Facio, a husband and father of two, also served with law enforcement agencies in Phoenix and across the Valley before joining Apache Junction PD. Those who knew him describe him as a man of deep commitment—both to his community and to his family.
“The most important thing he was proud of is being a father,” Chief Pooley said. “His wife is devastated. His kids are lost. But even in this dark moment, they feel the love from the community. They know they are supported.”
The Incident
The events that led to Officer Facio’s death unfolded Monday morning when officers responded to a reported road rage incident involving a firearm. The suspect, 37-year-old Roger Nunez, was pulled over and initially cooperated with police. However, when asked to step out of the vehicle, he became agitated.
Investigators say Nunez retrieved a handgun from his glove compartment and began walking away from the scene. He ignored commands to stop and reportedly shouted at officers to shoot him. Officers attempted to subdue him using less-lethal pepper balls, but they were ineffective.
Moments later, Nunez fired multiple rounds, striking Officer Facio in the face. Officers returned fire, wounding Nunez, who remains hospitalized in critical condition.
A Life Remembered
Since the shooting, community members and fellow officers have rallied around Officer Facio’s family. His parents, wife, and extended family traveled from across the country and Mexico to be by his side during his final days.
“It is with a broken heart I inform you of the passing of Officer Gabriel Facio today at 1:08 p.m.,” Chief Pooley shared in a solemn statement. “A little piece of us was lost as Officer Facio took his last breath. He was a beloved father, husband, son, brother, friend, and police officer who showed his passion for people through his service.”
Chief Pooley emphasized that Officer Facio’s bravery and resilience in his final days reflected the strength of his character. “He held on as long as he could, lifted by your prayers from both near and far,” he said.
A Community United in Grief
The department and city continue to mourn, with flags lowered and tributes pouring in across the region. Fellow officers say they will honor Officer Facio’s memory by living the values he carried with him daily—honor, integrity, compassion, and dedication.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
The Apache Junction Police Department asks the community to continue holding Officer Facio’s family in their thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.
“Officer Facio’s service, spirit, and sacrifice will remain part of our story forever,” Chief Pooley said. “We will carry him with us in every call, every mission, every day.”