Fairfax County Police Department, Virginia
End of Watch Monday, May 8, 2006
Add to My HeroesVicky Anne Owen Armel
Detective Vicky Armel was shot and killed when a suspect opened fire on her and other officers in the parking lot of the Sully District Station on Stonecroft Boulevard in Chantilly.
The suspect had carjacked a van moments earlier and drove into the police station's back parking lot. The suspect exited the vehicle and opened fire with a hunting rifle on Master Police Officer Michael Garbarino, who was sitting in his patrol car, striking him five times.
Detective Armel, who was also in the parking lot, immediately engaged the suspect and exchanged shots with the man. She was fatally wounded during the exchange. Several officers who responded to the parking lot also exchanged shots with him, killing him. In addition to the hunting rifle, the suspect was armed with five handguns and another rifle.
Detective Armel and the Master Police Officer Garbarino were flown to Inova Fairfax Hospital by members of the agency's Helicopter Division. Master Police Officer Garbarino remained in critical condition for 9 days before succumbing to his wounds.
Investigation revealed that the 18-year-old suspect had been arrested by Fairfax County police officers two weeks earlier for a carjacking he had committed in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Detective Armel had served with the Fairfax County Police Department for 9 years and had previously served with the Fairfax County Sheriff's Office for 8 years. She is survived by her son, a daughter, and her husband, who also serves as an officer with the agency.
Bio
- Age 40
- Tour 17 years
- Badge 2806
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Rifle; .30-.06
- Offender Shot and killed
Most Recent Reflection
View all 1,001 ReflectionsDetective Armel, I'm sorry for what happened to you and your partner that day 19 years ago, as you both didn't deserve it, nor was it needed. But rest assured, the man who took your life is gone, as your brothers and sisters in blue avenged you in death by getting rid of the shooter who killed you. There was no reason he had to take your life, as you were doing your job that day, not knowing that a spineless coward was lurking around the corner who's intent was to hurt police that day. Luckily he didn't get far, as karma quickly caught up to him and made him pay with his life, as he's now suffering in the afterlife. But however, I do think that during your 17 years as an officer, you made more of an impact to the citizens of Virginia and the citizens of Fairfax bigger than you thought you did. I think that you being a detective meant you only further helped your people, as you were solving cases and learning more about certain suspects who were out causing problems and being a nuisance to society, and you assisted your fellow officers with any kinds of cases that were unsolved or had problems solving. But also, I do think your kids learned later on in life that their mother truly was a hero to most, and that your legacy was unfortunately left behind. Despite that, your kids have most likely grown up to understand what type of person their mother was, and how you made your city safer during your almost 20 years as an officer, and making a large difference to all in your city. I do think that had there been signs there was an attack coming, there would've been a different outcome instead of the deaths of 2 police officers, as the outcome wasn't necessary. But all in all, you and your partner can rest in peace knowing that your killer is receiving his punishment in the afterlife, and that you've both been avenged in death. But as of now, may you rest in peace knowing your service is highly appreciated, and that your service as a detective and officer will never be forgotten for as long as time goes on, and that the citizens of Virginia along with Fairfax county appreciated your service while you were alive, which means that people who've met you can reflect on how you left an impact on others. Rest Well Mrs. Armel
Morgan, a civilian supporter of the blue line
June 3, 2025
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