By Ciara Perez, Investigative Reporter | iSkyNews.com
Mesa, AZ — June 8, 2025
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The law enforcement community and the City of Apache Junction are mourning the loss of one of their own. Officer Gabriel Facio passed away this afternoon at 1:08 p.m. after days of fighting for his life following a critical incident earlier this week.
Officer Facio was surrounded by family, friends, and fellow officers in his final moments at Banner Desert Medical Center. The sense of loss was heavy — not just in the hospital room, but in every patrol car, police station, and heart across the community he protected.
In a news conference held at the Mesa Community College Library, Apache Junction Police Chief Michael Pooley confirmed Officer Facio’s passing. Holding back emotion, he delivered a powerful and personal tribute.
“A little piece of us was lost as Officer Facio took his last breath,” Chief Pooley said. “He was a beloved father, husband, son, brother, friend, and police officer who showed his passion for people through his service to others. His service, spirit, and sacrifice will remain part of our story forever.”
Ciara Perez, Investigative Reporter with iSkyNews.com, was in attendance and had the chance to personally hug Chief Pooley after the press conference.
The compassion and love the chief has for his officers is amazing — not just in word, but in presence. It’s clear this department is more than a workplace. It’s a family.
Since Monday’s incident, Officer Facio had shown remarkable strength, holding on through the support of loved ones and prayers from across the state. But the trauma he endured was ultimately too severe.
Following the press conference, Apache Junction Police will coordinate with Phoenix Police for a dignified and honorable transfer of Officer Facio’s body to the Office of the Medical Examiner in Phoenix. Additionally, Mesa Police will assist with the funeral escort when the time comes, ensuring Officer Facio is honored with the respect and solemnity he deserves.
iSkyNews.com will be in attendance to pay our respects and continue honoring his memory.
This evening, iSkyNews.com received an official statement from Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller, who pledged swift and firm legal action in response to 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.”
“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.”
“As County Attorney, I want to make it clear: my office will pursue justice in this case with the full force of the law. The individual responsible for this heinous act will be held fully accountable. 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 to uphold justice and protect peace.”
“We are working closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure a thorough and swift investigation. This office stands ready to prosecute this case with integrity, diligence, and an unwavering commitment to justice.”
“To Officer Facio’s family, friends, and fellow officers—know that you are not alone in your grief. Our entire community mourns with you, and we honor your pain with our promise: justice will be served.”
“May Officer Facio rest in peace, and may we find strength and unity in his memory.”
As the community grieves, Officer Gabriel Facio is being remembered not only for his service and sacrifice, but for the love he gave to those around him. He was a protector, a family man, and a public servant to the very end.
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Read the original story and find out how you can support his family during this difficult time. Donations, messages of condolence, and verified fundraisers are available through the link below. Your support means everything to those grieving this unimaginable loss:
👉 https://www.iskynews.com/2025/06/support-officer-gabriel-facio-apache.html
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Stay with iSkyNews.com for continued coverage, memorial details, and community tributes.
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