Wakemed Officer Killed On Duty

A WakeMed police officer was shot and killed while on duty in Garner on Saturday morning. Garner police officers were called around 9 a.m. to reports of a shooting happening in the Emergency Department at WakeMed Garner Healthplex, located in the 400 block of US-70.

According to a statement from WakeMed to ABC11, officer Roger Smith, 59, was in the hospital's emergency department lobby when "a struggle ensued" and he was shot. Despite the "immediate life-saving efforts" from medical staff, Smith succumbed to his injuries.

"This is a heartbreaking and senseless act of violence," said Garner Police Chief Chris Adams. "Officer Smith dedicated his career to protecting others, and even in his final moments, he put the safety of others before his own. Our condolences go out to the Smith family, the WakeMed Campus Police Department, and the entire WakeMed staff. The Garner community mourns alongside you today."

Garner Police announced on Saturday afternoon that a suspect has been charged. Benji Martin Jr., 29, from Garner, faces murder charges related to Smith's death. The Wake County Sheriff's Office reported that a procession for Smith began at 1:40 p.m., traveling from WakeMed on New Bern Avenue to the N.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Raleigh. Between 60 and 100 law enforcement and fire vehicles took part in the procession.

Gov. Josh posted on X about the shooting:

"My heart goes out to the family of Officer Roger Smith, who was killed protecting patients and their families. Law enforcement officers put themselves in harm's way to keep us safe, and we are forever grateful for Officer Smith's sacrifice. Please pray for his family and the entire WakeMed community in their time of need."

Smith had dedicated 14 years to public safety at WakeMed. Originally from Knightdale, he previously worked with the Knightdale Police before joining WakeMed.