"Heroes Live Forever" - the story of Fairfax County (VA) Det. Vicky Armel and Master Police Officer Michael Garbarino

A mentally disturbed 18-year-old with a hatred toward police launched a vicious attack in a police station parking lot. He fired more than 70 rounds and killed two courageous and beloved officers.

Det. Vicky Armel and MPO Michael Garbarino

McLean, VA (April 14, 2026) - Their names are Vicky Armel and Michael Garbarino, two Fairfax County police officers whose courage, sacrifice, and devotion to duty will forever stand as one of the most painful and defining moments in the history of the Fairfax County, Virginia, Police Department. They were killed in the same violent attack — an ambush that unfolded in the back parking lot of the Sully District Station in Chantilly on May 8, 2006. An 18‑year‑old assailant — who had carjacked a van moments earlier — drove into the station’s rear lot armed with a hunting rifle, five handguns, and another rifle. Without warning, he opened fire on Master Police Officer Garbarino, who was sitting in his patrol car. The suspect shot him five times at close range. Detective Vicky Armel was also in the parking lot. Hearing the gunfire, she immediately engaged the shooter, drawing fire away from Officer Garbarino. She exchanged shots with him, and a bullet from his rifle pierced her ballistic vest and struck her in the chest. Vicky died that day. Mike, who vowed he would not die in that parking lot, held on for nine days before succumbing to his injuries. Responding officers killed their assailant. At a remembrance ceremony years after their deaths, a police colleague said, “Family does not forget . . . Mike and Vicky were heroes because of the way they lived.” They were devoted parents, loving spouses, trusted colleagues and protectors of their community.

Listen to the podcast to learn the rest of the story: https://behindbadge.substack.com/p/heroes-live-forever-the-story-of-c82