CORNELIUS, N.C. – A tragic accident claimed the life of a young officer after a 26-year-old North Carolina officer killed while riding bike with wife was struck by a vehicle in Concord on Saturday afternoon, according to police.
The victim has been identified as Officer Gabriel Stainback of the Cornelius Police Department. Stainback, who had recently married, was on a bike ride with his wife when the fatal crash occurred. Police confirmed that his wife survived the incident.
Remembered by Cornelius Police Department
The Cornelius Police Department shared condolences in a heartfelt post on social media.
“Our deepest condolences are with his family and our entire CPD family. Please keep them in your thoughts during this unimaginable tragedy,” the department wrote.
Stainback was sworn into the force in December 2024 after completing the Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) program.
Former High Point University Athlete
Before his law enforcement career, Stainback was a standout athlete at High Point University (HPU). As a member of the track and field team, he made a lasting impact on the program:
- Three-time Big South Decathlon Champion (2018–2021)
- Key contributor to HPU’s first-ever Big South Outdoor Championship title in 2021
- Named to the Big South 2010–2019 All-Decade Team
- Earned seven All-Conference selections
His coaches remembered him not only for his athletic accomplishments but also for his character.
Coach Scott Hall, who worked closely with Stainback, described him as “a bright light in the room” and “an all-around great teammate.” Head Coach Mike Esposito added, “He was one of our all-time favorite student-athletes and he is going to be missed dearly.”
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Source: myfox8
Written by: Daniel Olafamoye, Greensboro NC News.
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