Hospital Officer Roger Smith Shot Dead at WakeMed; Suspect Charged
A tragic incident unfolded on Saturday morning at WakeMed Garner Healthplex in Garner, North Carolina, when a police officer was fatally shot. WakeMed Police Officer Roger Smith, aged 59, was on duty in the emergency department when a struggle occurred, leading to his shooting around 9 a.m.
Details of the Incident
Despite immediate medical attention, Officer Smith succumbed to his injuries. Garner police swiftly charged Benji Martin Jr., 29, of Garner, with murder in connection with Smith’s death.
Community Reaction
Garner Police Chief Chris Adams expressed profound sadness over the event. “This is a heartbreaking and senseless act of violence,” he stated. Adams praised Officer Smith for dedicating his life to public safety, emphasizing that in his final moments, he prioritized the safety of others.
- Officer Smith served WakeMed for 14 years.
- He previously worked with Knightdale Police from 1997 to 2013.
- Residents of Knightdale honored Smith as a local hero following his death.
Tributes and Processions
A procession for Officer Smith commenced at 1:40 p.m. on Saturday, starting from WakeMed. The procession included 60 to 100 law enforcement and fire vehicles, traveling to the N.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Raleigh. The Wake County Sheriff’s Office noted the weight of the community’s grief and extended condolences to Smith’s family.
Hospital Response and Investigation
Garner Healthplex staff responded heroically to the shooting. The emergency department lobby remains closed while investigations by the State Bureau of Investigation and the Garner Police Department are underway. The facility is expected to reopen later today.
Support for the Community
In the wake of this tragedy, additional staff and counselors are available to support the emergency department and police teams affected by the incident. Governor Josh also expressed his condolences on X, highlighting the sacrifice of Officer Smith in protecting others.
The investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The Garner community, alongside law enforcement agencies, mourns the loss of Officer Roger Smith, a devoted public servant always committed to the safety of others.
