APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. — In a moment that transcended tragedy, the East Valley community came together in overwhelming numbers on Wednesday to honor the life and legacy of Apache Junction Police Officer Gabriel Facio. A barbecue fundraiser held at Apache Junction High School drew thousands—from local residents to officers across Arizona—all united by a shared sense of grief, respect, and deep gratitude.
Officer Facio, a four-year veteran of the Apache Junction Police Department, was shot in the line of duty on June 2 while pursuing a suspect. After a courageous week-long fight for his life at a Valley hospital, Facio passed away on Sunday. He was 28 years old.
“He will always have our support,” said Officer Lottie Kimball of the Scottsdale Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 35, one of many law enforcement representatives who stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the community. “This is what it means to be family.”
Apache Junction Police Chief Michael Pooley was visibly moved by the outpouring of support. “It means the world to us. It means the world to our department, to his family, to this entire community here in Apache Junction,” Pooley said.
The high school gymnasium was filled with the aroma of grilled barbecue, the buzz of conversations, and the silent weight of loss. The meal, generously prepared and served by the Mesa Police Department’s Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 9 and the Queen Creek Fire Department, provided more than nourishment—it was an act of love and solidarity. Raffles, donations, and kind words poured in throughout the day. Officers from as far as Flagstaff and Tucson made the journey to attend. The event served not only as a fundraiser but as a living tribute to a man who gave his life in service to others.
“I’ve always loved being in law enforcement,” Pooley shared. “But now, going through this and seeing how the community is just coming out for us—it’s changed everything for me. It has augmented how much I just care about this profession.”
A portrait of Officer Facio, adorned with flowers and flags, stood at the center of the gym—his uniformed gaze watching over the event as a quiet, powerful presence. Born in Mexico, Facio immigrated to the United States and became a citizen to pursue his dream of becoming a police officer. He did more than achieve that goal—he inspired others with his commitment, humility, and courage.
Although the event was scheduled to end at 7 p.m., organizers announced they would keep the doors open later into the evening to ensure everyone had a chance to attend and contribute.
All proceeds from the fundraiser will go directly to Officer Facio’s family as they begin to navigate life without their beloved son, brother, and hero. For those unable to attend in person, donations can still be made at mesafop.com/foundation/make-a-difference. All donations are tax deductible, and 100% of the funds will go directly to the Facio family.
A funeral service for Officer Gabriel Facio is scheduled for Monday at 10 a.m. at Central Christian Church in Mesa. The public is invited to attend and pay their respects. The final procession route from the funeral home to the church (departing at 8:30am to 9am) is 7900 E Main west on Main to Sossaman, North on Sossaman to University, West on University to Lindsay, North on Lindsay to Central Christian Church.
In a world often marked by division, Wednesday’s gathering was a poignant reminder of the strength found in community—and of a life that, though cut short, will never be forgotten.
