Apache Junction Police officer in critical condition, suspect hurt following shooting

APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. - An officer was critically injured, and a suspect was hospitalized following a shooting in an Apache Junction neighborhood on Monday.

"It is heartbreaking to see one of your strong, tough officers in a very dire situation," said Apache Junction Police Chief Michael Pooley during a news conference on June 3.

What we know:

Apache Junction Police say the incident happened on June 2 near Ironwood Drive and Elliot Road when police attempted a traffic stop. Someone reported having seen someone inside a car with a gun, fearing a possible road rage incident was about to unfold.

The suspect, identified by police as 37-year-old Roger Nunez, reportedly got out of his car during the stop. 

"The male was not complying with our verbal directions. We attempted less lethal ammunition towards him to try to gain compliance. At that time, he brandished his firearm and fired at police officers. They returned fire, striking him as well as one of our officers was struck by his gunfire towards us," Apache Junction Police said.

The officer, Gabriel Facio, was rushed to the hospital in life-threatening condition after he was shot in the face. He's been with AJPD for three years.

"He's just a wonderful human being, and one of my personal favorites," Chief Pooley said.

As for the suspect, he was taken to the hospital for his injuries. He's accused of several counts of aggravated assault.

Dig deeper:

As of June 3, Apache Junction police officials say Facio remains in critical condition.

"We are holding onto hope and standing beside him and his family during this incredibly difficult time. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support we’ve received from the community. Many have asked how they can help — one meaningful way is through words. We’ve created a space where you can share a message for Officer Facio and his family. Whether it’s a memory, a kind word, or a moment you shared with him in the community, your words may bring comfort to those who need it most right now," the department said.

While in the hospital, Officer Facio is surrounded by his wife, two children and police family.

"He is in very critical condition and one thing that I will tell you is that we need prayers for our officer," Chief Pooley said.

The chief's remarks were followed by a moment of silence and prayer.

"As a chief, this is your worst nightmare," he said. "Officer Facio is kind of the heartbeat of our department. Everybody loves Officer Facio."

Police say Nunez pulled an unmarked or ghost handgun from his car.

"He did say, at some point, that he wanted the officer to shoot him and at that point, it was kind of like a suicide by cop," Chief Pooley said.

Five other Apache Junction Police officers were able to fire back at Nunez. Those five officers are placed on paid leave, which is routine protocol.

"It shakes us. It shakes our officers. It shakes the entire department and the entire community," Chief Pooley said.

The Apache Junction Police Department is tight-knit with just under a hundred sworn officers.

What you can do:

You can leave a message for Officer Facio by clicking here.

"Officer Facio is fighting for his life. There is no doubt about it, he is a fighter, but he is fighting for his life. Which is why I’m calling on you now, the community, right now, to ask for any support for the family and for the Apache Junction Police Department and the entire community," Chief Pooley said.

What's next:

The East Valley Critical Response Team is investigating this shooting, with the Mesa Police Department being the lead agency. 

Chief Pooley mentioned the support offered by other Valley law enforcement agencies, and that they may have to bring some officers in from other departments to make up for this loss.

Map of where the incident happened

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