Apache Junction Police Department, Arizona
End of Watch Sunday, June 8, 2025
Reflections for Police Officer Gabriel Facio
Lord Jesus, as we watch America’s Peace Officers succumb to the wicked and evil in this world, it becomes difficult for us to pick up and move forward. Our communities are on the brink of exploding with tension. In light of the peace officers who are no longer with us, I pray for endurance for our communities and law enforcement agencies. Carry us through this time of strife, that through our struggles, our bonds may grow even more unbreakable. In Your mighty and holy name, and by Your Authority, I pray. Amen.
Biblical Scripture Verses of Encouragement, Hope, and Comfort:
“And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.” [Isaiah 6:8 ESV];
"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." [Psalm 23:4 ESV];
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons [children] of God." [Matthew 5:9 ESV], and;
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted." [Matthew 5:4 ESV].
Police Chaplain Steven R. Closs, DDiv, MSBS, NCCA
Ordained/Licensed/Certified Global Outreach Christian Minister No. 36526
The Badge 183 Peacemakers Prayer Ministry
Member: Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers - USA
Captain Steven R. Closs (Retired)
Nashua NH Police Department (1974-1998)
June 12, 2025
Thank you for your service Officer Facio. May God's grace bring peace to your family and fellow officers. Rest in peace brother.
Sgt Wm C Elliott (retired)
Campbell County Sheriff's Office VA
June 12, 2025
Thank you for your sacrifice for our nation. May you be with the Lord and may he be with your family.
Det. Russ Cain
Pittsburgh PD
June 12, 2025
Another "Hero" taken.
You helped make this world a safer place to live.
May God grant you eternal peace.
Prayers to your loved ones and to your department.
Det. Billy Russo (Ret.)
Nassau County PD, NY
June 11, 2025
Fair Winds and Following Seas. Rest in Peace Brother.
Sergeant Blas Ruiz (Retired)
Willliams Police Department
June 11, 2025
We will always miss Facio and his positive attitude. Things will not be the same without him, but hopefully we honor his legacy with our actions each day.
Eric Jensen
June 11, 2025
Rest Now Brother
Officer/EMT Shannon Yates
Collins Police Department (MS)
June 11, 2025
Rest easy hero thank you for your service. May your sacrifice or memory never fade.
Retired #8046 Jerry Matalone
Des Moines Iowa Police Department
June 10, 2025
Rest in peace brother.
Till Valhalla
Cpl. J. Sanchez
TEXAS DPS
June 10, 2025
Rest in peace Brother....My thoughts are with your family, friends, and the members of your agency during this most difficult and tragic time
LT. Joseph Ward, Ret
Jackson, NJ PD
June 10, 2025
So saddened to hear this. God was needing another angel......Many prayers to this officer and his co workers his family.....Thank you for your service Police Officer Gabreil Facio, gone but never forgotten
susan johnson
Retired Law Enforcement Dispatcher
June 10, 2025
Dear Chief of Police Michael Pooley:
I hope this letter finds you well, though I understand it is an incredibly tough time for you, and everyone connected to your department. I am writing to extend my heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolences for the loss of Police Officer Gabriel Facio, a brave and dedicated lawman.
The news of Officer Facio’s death has deeply saddened me and my entire family. The sacrifice that he made while protecting and serving your community is a testament to the selfless and courageous nature of law enforcement officers like him. We can never truly understand the risks and challenges faced by those in law enforcement, and we are forever indebted to them for their unwavering commitment to keeping us safe.
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with Officer Facio’s family and colleagues during this immensely challenging time. Their loss is immeasurable, and we can only hope that the outpouring of support from the community can offer some comfort in these trying times.
In times like these, we must remember the positive impact Officer Facio had on countless lives throughout his life and career. The memories of his dedication, kindness, and professionalism will remain etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
To you, Chief Pooley, and the entire Apache Junction Police Department, my family and I want to express our gratitude for the vital work you do each day, often in the face of danger and adversity. The sacrifice of your fallen colleague serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that come with your line of duty. Despite the risks, you continue to serve with integrity and unwavering commitment, and for that, we are immensely thankful.
Having served 46+ years as a Law Enforcement Professional, my family stands with you during this time of mourning. Please do not hesitate to reach out if there is anything we can do to support your fallen hero’s family, you, and your department during this difficult period.
May the memories of Police Officer Gabriel Facio be a source of strength and may his legacy inspire others to follow in his footsteps of honor and service. We will forever be indebted to the sacrifice he made to keep us safe.
With deepest sympathy,
Chief (retired) Don P. Jensen Sr. PGP PP PM DrE
June 10, 2025
Rest In Peace Brother in Blue.
“Blessed are the Peacemakers for they shall be Called Children of God.” Matthew 5:9
Detective D. Vaquero
San Diego Police Department
June 10, 2025
We at Nevada Division of Emergency Management extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Officer Gabriel Facio. His dedication, courage, and service to his community will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Hero.
T. Gerchman, Statewide 911 Coordinator
Nevada Division of Emergency Management
June 10, 2025
RIP Officer Facio, my sincere condolences to your family and to your department. God speed as you now patrol the streets of gold. Your ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. Fair winds and following seas brother we have the watch.
Terry F. Zech Ofd/Retired
Veterans Affairs Police Dept Detroit Michigan
June 10, 2025
Thank you for your service and sacrifice. Rest In Peace Officer Facio. Our deepest heartfelt condolences to all of your family, friends, and brothers and sisters at Apache Junction Police Department.
Postal Inspector Scott Horne
US Postal Inspection Service
June 10, 2025
May The Good Lord bless and give strength to the family and all the brothers and sisters who worked and know you brother. And protect all of our brothers and sisters in law enforcement.
Amen.
Ross Tucker - Retired firefighter
Buckeye FD, National Park Service, Laguna Beach FD
June 10, 2025
Officer Facio,
I'm very saddened to learn of your passing. I lived in Apache Junction for a few years and had a great deal of respect for your small department. I want to thank you so much for your selfless service to the people of Apache Junction and other communities which you served as a law enforcement officer. Rest in peace. I will pray for your wife, your children and grandchild, as well as the rest of your family, friends, loved ones and colleagues.
Greater love has no one than this, that a person will lay down his life for his friends. - John 15:13
Daniel Ryan
Private Investigator (Retired)
June 10, 2025
RIP Hero. May you forever spend your eternal life with our dear Lord in heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with all your loved ones. Our country is now a little less safe without you. Thank you for your service.
HEROES NEVER DIE....
Sergeant Mitchell G. Cheselka (Retired)
Orange County Sheriff, California
Polk County Sheriff, Oregon
June 9, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with the immediate family of Police Officer Gabriel Facio and the extended law enforcement family of the Apache Junction Police Department, Arizona.
End of Watch Sunday, June 8, 2025.
Rest in Peace brother and watch over us. We will protect and serve from here on in your honor.
I fight not for glory or fame, for they are momentary. I fight for those who can't. I fight for Justice. I fight for the oppressed and the down trodden. And if I should lose my life for these just causes, then I have no regrets, For I serve to protect the innocent. It matters not where or when, for evil knows no boundaries. Be it fire, flood, or the threat of tyranny, I will not flee. Justice is my weapon. Faith is my shield. Hope is my armor. Cry not at my passing, for it was my Honor to fight for you. Shed not tears of sorrow, But tears of joy, for now, I stand with God.
By Jon F. Hooper
"Greater love hath no man than this; that a man lay down his life for his friends."
Superintendent Joe Morbitzer (Retired)
Ohio Attorneys General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation
June 9, 2025
Our thoughts and prayers are with the immediate family of Police Officer Gabriel Facio and the extended law enforcement family of the Apache Junction Police Department, Arizona.
End of Watch Sunday, June 8, 2025.
Rest in Peace brother and watch over us. We will protect and serve from here on in your honor.
I fight not for glory or fame, for they are momentary. I fight for those who can't. I fight for Justice. I fight for the oppressed and the down trodden. And if I should lose my life for these just causes, then I have no regrets, For I serve to protect the innocent. It matters not where or when, for evil knows no boundaries. Be it fire, flood, or the threat of tyranny, I will not flee. Justice is my weapon. Faith is my shield. Hope is my armor. Cry not at my passing, for it was my Honor to fight for you. Shed not tears of sorrow, But tears of joy, for now, I stand with God.
By Jon F. Hooper
"Greater love hath no man than this; that a man lay down his life for his friends."
Superintendent Joe Morbitzer (Retired)
Ohio Attorneys General, Bureau of Criminal Investigation
June 9, 2025
Rest In Peace Brother.
Det. Andreoli
NYPD-Retired
June 9, 2025
In times of loss, we come together to honor the memory and service of those who have passed. It's a moment to reflect on the impact they've had on the lives of others, and the legacy they leave behind. Their dedication and service will always be remembered, and their spirit will continue to inspire. May comfort find its way to you and all those mourning this loss.
Retired Reserve Police Officer
June 9, 2025
Rest in Peace Brother
Thank you for your service and ULTIMATE SACRIFICE
Prayers for you and your family
GOD BLESS
Firefighter (Retired) Ronald Lavallee
Lawrence, MA Fire Department
June 9, 2025
Rest in Peace Brother! May GOD BLESS you and your family!
Another warrior taken much too soon!
Scott Smith Detective III
LAPD
June 9, 2025

