An Apache Junction police officer who was shot in the face last week while responding to a call has died, authorities said Sunday afternoon.

Gabriel Facio responded to a call on June 2 about a man brandishing a weapon.

Officers stopped Roger Nunez, 37, near Radiance Avenue, where he left a vehicle with a gun, police said.

Shots were fired, and  the officer was hit.

Nunez is a suspect in the shooting.

Apache Junction Police Chief Michael Pooley said since the shooting Facio “showed remarkable strength and resilience. Surrounded by loved ones and lifted by the strength of your prayers from both near and far, he held on as long as he could.

Tragically, the harm caused by a senseless act of violence was too great.”

Pinal County Attorney Brad Miller said on Sunday:

“This senseless act has shaken us to our core. Officer Facio died doing what he had sworn to do - keeping others safe. His courage and selflessness will never be forgotten, and his sacrifice will not be in vain.

As county attorney, I want to make it clear: My office will pursue justice in this case with the full force of the law.”

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