Sergeant Gary W. Wolfley

Sergeant Gary W. Wolfley

Rialto Police Department, California

End of Watch Monday, March 3, 1986

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Gary W. Wolfley

Sergeant Gary Wolfley was shot and killed after responding to an unknown disturbance at a local gas station.

When he arrived on the scene he observed two men standing next to a gas pump. One of the men immediately began to run and was pursued by Sergeant Wolfley. A struggle ensued behind the service station and the suspect was able to gain control of Sergeant Wolfley's weapon and shoot him.

Sergeant Wolfley's wife, who was with him on a ride along, called for backup. As backup officers were being dispatched, the man took Sergeant Wolfley's gun and ran northbound behind the gas station.

He shot at the first responding backup officer through the cruiser's windshield, but missed the officer. The man then ran and jump through an apartment window and shot the resident in the leg. The resident of the apartment was able to get out as the subject barricaded himself in the apartment. Responding officers from the Rialto, Fontana, and San Bernardino police departments were able to contain the man in the apartment complex. The man later surrendered to police after a night long stand off.

He was convicted of Sergeant Wolfley's murder and subsequently sentenced to death.

Sergeant Wolfley was survived by his wife, who became an officer with the Fontana Police Department one year later.

Bio

  • Age 30
  • Tour Not available
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Weapon Officer's handgun
  • Offender Sentenced to death

disturbance, foot pursuit

Most Recent Reflection

View all 55 Reflections

Sgt. Gary Wolfley…I never knew you personally, but my husband did. He was one of the medics that responded to your call from Rialto Fire. He was devastated to find out that it was you who had been shot! Since that day, you and your wife have been part of our lives. We think about you through out the year, but especially on March 3. It’s hard to believe that it has almost been 40 years. Through strange circumstances, my husband was not allowed to attend your funeral that day, but was ordered to work at the station. He was so angry about that and it changed him. My husband passed away June 5, 2025. I’m pretty sure he gave you a big hug in heaven when he saw you again! I would love nothing more than to lay flowers at your grave in his honor. I thank you and your wife for your honorable service! I look for ward to meeting you one day!

Marie Norris
Wife of Ret. Chief Michael Norris

September 21, 2025

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