David G. Gabrielli

Officer David G. Gabrielli was killed while investigating a previous fatal crash on U.S. 89, just south of Valencia Road in Tucson. Officer Gabrielli, who was standing in the median with Sgt. John M. Blaser, was struck from behind by a car driven by a drunken driver, James B. Sheets. Officer Gabrielli died at the scene. Sgt. Blaser later died at an area hospital.

Officer Gabrielli, had 17 years with the Arizona Highway Patrol. Six of those years as a paramedic with the AZDPS helicopter service. Officer Gabrielli served in Vietnam Nam with the U.S. Navy and remained in the Reserves until his death. He had just recently been promoted to the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. He was also a member of the International Police Association. He is survived by his wife Judy, his daughter, two step sons and three sisters.