“Deeply loved by everyone,” Cornelius PD setup memorial for fallen officer; NCSHP release more details

CORNELIUS, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — “Gabriel was not only a great Police Officer, he was a great person,” Cornelius Police said in a statement on Monday after the passing of one of their officers over the weekend.

Officer Stainback, 26 years old and recently married, was killed on Saturday, September 13, when he was struck by a vehicle while on a bike ride with his wife in Concord.

According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, the crash happened around 6:45 p.m. on Miami Church Road. Stainback was reportedly hit from behind by a 2020 Toyota 4Runner. Troopers said he was wearing a helmet, reflective vest and had rear lights on.

Tragically, he was pronoucned dead at the scene. Neighbors near the scene of the crash who tried to help Officer Stainback before first responders arrived told Queen City News that his wife was not injured.

Highway Patrol said the driver stopped and cooperated with investigators. There were no signs of impairment, and charges have not been filed at this time.

Thousands of people commented on behalf of Officer Stainback. One person who was a good friend of Gabriel in high school said, “Everyone who knew Gabe knew what it was to know an outstanding man. Gabe was such a joy to be around and joke around with all the time. Me and Gabe used to always cut up and have a good time together, but I always noticed how kind-hearted that man was and his light that shined for God.”

CPD said he joined the department in December 2024 as a cadet before completing the Basic Law Enforcement Training Program. On Monday, the police department put up a memorial outside the station in his honor. Police Chief David Baucom sent out the following statement:

“It is with great sadness in our hearts that we mourn with the family of Patrol Officer Gabriel Stainback regarding his tragic death on Saturday. Gabriel was not only a great Police Officer, he was a great person. He had accomplished so much in his short lifetime. From his loving wife and family to all of his friends, it is obvious he was loved deeply by everyone. He was a servant in every aspect of his life and will be deeply missed. Please keep Gabriel’s family and our department in your thoughts and prayers in the coming weeks.”

NCSHP says it is still investigating the cause of the crash.