Key Highlights
- A WakeMed campus police officer was shot and killed in a Saturday morning incident at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex.
- The suspect, Benji Martin Jr., has been charged with murder in Officer Roger Smith’s death.
- Officer Smith worked for the Knightdale Police Department from 1997 to 2013 and was involved in a struggle before getting shot.
- A procession was held for Smith on Saturday afternoon from WakeMed Raleigh to the medical examiner’s office.
Tragic Shooting at WakeMed Garner Healthplex
WakeMed campus police officer Roger Smith, 59, died in a shooting incident that occurred early Saturday morning at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex. The event unfolded on U.S. Highway 70 and left the community reeling with grief.
Suspect Charged
The suspect, Benji Martin Jr., of Garner, was charged with murder in connection with Smith’s death. According to WRAL News, a news release from WakeMed stated that Officer Smith died around 9 a.m. while on duty in the emergency department lobby. The shooting is believed to have occurred after a struggle.
Officer Roger Smith: A Local Hero
Smith had a long and distinguished career with the Knightdale Police Department, serving for 16 years before joining WakeMed’s campus police force. His service also included celebrating 10 years of work at WakeMed in 2023.
Community Reactions and Procession
The community mourned Officer Smith with a procession that began from WakeMed Raleigh to the medical examiner’s office on Saturday afternoon. Law enforcement agencies from various towns and cities extended their condolences, including the Raleigh Police Department, the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, Zebulon Police Department, and more.
Mike McIver, a retired deputy police chief in Garner who ran for town council, shared his thoughts on Facebook: “Everyone please stop what you are doing and pray 🙏 for the WakeMed officer that was shot at WakeMed Garner.” Vendors and local market participants also expressed their shock and concern as they witnessed the unfolding of events.
State Bureau of Investigation agents were involved in the investigation, and multiple police cruisers were seen parked around the hospital. The event underscored the dangers faced by law enforcement officers across North Carolina.
The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who protect our communities and highlights the ongoing need for safety and security measures within healthcare facilities.
