Phoenix Police Department, Arizona
End of Watch Monday, June 16, 1975
Add to My HeroesGilbert Richard Chavez
Officer Gilbert Chavez was shot and killed by a juvenile during a burglary of a Phoenix radiator business.
Officer Chavez and his partner had entered the business after dispatchers received an anonymous tip that a burglary was in progress. The officer located one of two suspects and a struggle ensued. Officer Chavez was shot near the heart and critically wounded but managed to radio for help before dying.
The offender served 25 years, was released, re-offended and is serving 56 years for kidnapping.
Officer Chavez had served with the agency for one year. He was survived by his wife.
Bio
- Age 22
- Tour 1 year
- Badge 2684
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Gun; Unknown type
- Offender Sentenced to 25 years
Most Recent Reflection
View all 35 ReflectionsMy dearest husband, the love of my life. It's been 44 years since that tragic incident when you were taken from me and family. Even though so many years have gone by, you are still missed, loved, and are forever in our heart. Like in the words of Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy, It has been said, "time heals all wounds". I do not agree. The wounds remain. In time, the mind, protecting its sanity, covers them with scar tissue and the pain lessens, but it is never gone.
I love you, Gilbert, may you R.I.P. my love, until we meet again.
Virgie Cruz-Chavez
Wife
June 16, 2019
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