Prosecutors seeking death penalty for man accused of killing Arizona cop

APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. — The Pinal County Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday it will pursue the death penalty against the man accused of fatally shooting Apache Junction Police Officer Gabriel Facio in June 2025.

County Attorney Brad Miller made the announcement during an afternoon press conference, saying the decision reflects the severity of the crime and its impact on the community.

Roger Nunez, 37, is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the June killing. Authorities say Officer Facio was chasing Nunez after he fled a traffic stop when the suspect opened fire with an untraceable firearm, striking the officer in the face.

Facio, described by colleagues as a dedicated and well-loved member of the department, fought for his life in the hospital for a week before succumbing to his injuries.

Nunez has not been convicted on the murder charge. Prosecutors must notify the court within a certain amount of time if they plan to pursue capital punishment in a murder case. 

Death penalty cases are broken down into two phases: the defendant must first be found guilty of the offense, then a jury must decide whether the offense warrants the death penalty or a life sentence.

Nunez will be back in court on Sept. 15.

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