Police Officer Arthur Edward Del Gaudio, Jr.

Police Officer Arthur Edward Del Gaudio, Jr.

Phoenix Police Department, Arizona

End of Watch Thursday, April 22, 1976

Add to My Heroes

Arthur Edward Del Gaudio, Jr.

Officer Arthur Del Gaudio was killed while in pursuit of an intoxicated and reckless driver who had been drag racing.

The officer collided with another police car and then careened into the wall of a home at 10th Street and Rose Lane. His death was instrumental in persuading the State Legislature to enact the Unlawful Flight statute.

The driver they were pursuing was charged with driving while intoxicated and reckless driving.

Officer Del Gaudio was a United States Navy Vietnam veteran and served with the Phoenix Police Department for at least a year. He is survived by his wife, who was pregnant with their first child, and his parents.

Bio

  • Age 26
  • Tour 1 year
  • Badge 2964
  • Military Veteran

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicle pursuit
  • Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
  • Offender Charged with reckless driving

Impaired Driver, pursuit

Most Recent Reflection

View all 34 Reflections

Hello Beth
My name is Steve DIANO, I was Arthur’s Training Officer on the Phx PD and became good friends with him and his family and was there right behind him on that fatal day. He was my best friend and partner and I think of him always. . If you ever read this you can contact me anytime as I would love to talk with you. 602-320-0815

Detective Steve Diano
Phoenix PD

July 16, 2025

Create an account for more options, or use this form to leave a Reflection now.