The Memphis Police Department's recent social media remembrance of Officer Verdell Smith, who died in the line of duty on June 4, 2016, brings renewed attention to a tragic incident that highlighted both the dangers faced by law enforcement and the heroic actions of officers protecting civilians in crisis situations.
Officer Verdell Smith, a 46-year-old Navy veteran and 18-year Memphis Police Department veteran, was struck and killed by a vehicle driven by Justin Welch, who was fleeing after committing a violent crime spree in downtown Memphis. According to ABC News, Smith died while attempting to clear pedestrians from the path of the speeding vehicle during a street festival on Beale Street.
The chain of events began just before 10:00 p.m. when Welch, who witnesses described as talking loudly to himself, suddenly opened fire on customers outside Westy's Restaurant. As reported by Local Memphis, Welch shot two customers at close range before fleeing to the nearby Bass Pro Shops parking lot, where he shot an employee and stole a vehicle.
A Heroic Final Act
When officers pursued Welch's stolen vehicle, it began driving the wrong way down B.B. King Boulevard, which had been closed for a street festival. According to the Memphis Police Association, Officer Smith and other officers were attempting to clear the street and sidewalks of pedestrians when Welch's vehicle crashed through a barrier and struck Smith. Memphis Police Association President Mike Williams told local media that Smith "sacrificed himself" to save others, explaining that "he was trying to get individuals out of the way, because the car was moving very fast."
The suspect fled on foot after the collision but was captured after a brief chase. NBC News reported that Welch was subsequently charged with first-degree murder, three counts of attempted first-degree murder, and evading arrest.
Justice Served Years Later
The case finally reached resolution in 2021 when Welch was convicted on multiple charges including first-degree murder and vehicular homicide. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The conviction also included charges related to the death of Joshua Walton, one of the shooting victims who died 13 months after the incident.
Officer Smith was posthumously promoted to the rank of Sergeant and received the nation's highest law enforcement honor in 2019. WREG reported that President Donald Trump presented Smith with the Medal of Valor, recognizing his sacrifice in protecting innocent civilians.
Troubling Trends in Memphis Police Fatalities
Smith's death occurred during what has become a particularly dangerous period for Memphis law enforcement. FOX13 Memphis investigation revealed that the Memphis Police Department has suffered nine line of duty deaths since 2020, significantly more than comparable-sized cities like Nashville (zero), Baltimore (two), New Orleans (one), and St. Louis (one).
Recent fallen officers include Officer Demetrice Johnson, who died in a vehicle crash in August 2024, and Officer Joseph McKinney, who was shot and killed while investigating a suspicious vehicle in April 2024. The Officer Down Memorial Page indicates that Memphis Police Department has lost 94 officers throughout its history, with vehicular assault accounting for six fatalities and officers struck by vehicles responsible for five deaths.
Community Response and Legacy
The community response to Smith's death demonstrated the profound impact he had on Memphis. WREG coverage of his memorial service showed hundreds of attendees, including law enforcement agencies from across the Mid-South, gathering at Hope Presbyterian Church to honor his memory.
Fallen Officer Smith's visitation starts in 30 mins at Hope Presbyterian Church @3onyourside pic.twitter.com/bRhbI9PGVG
— Jessica Gertler (@jgertler_WREG3) June 9, 2016
The Turkey Trot with Cops fundraiser, originally spearheaded by Smith himself, continues annually in his honor. WMC Action News 5 reported that fellow officers maintained the community outreach program to let residents know they have ongoing support from law enforcement.
Broader Context of Police Violence
Smith's death occurred during a period when Memphis law enforcement has faced increased scrutiny. The city gained national attention in 2023 following the death of Tyre Nichols, who died after being beaten by five Memphis police officers. Reuters reported that three of those officers were acquitted of state murder charges in May 2025, while others accepted plea deals.
The contrast between these cases underscores the complex challenges facing modern policing, where officers like Smith risk their lives to protect others while the profession grapples with accountability issues.
Legal and Policy Implications
Smith's case contributed to ongoing discussions about officer safety protocols during vehicle pursuits and crowd control situations. Congressman Steve Cohen noted that law enforcement officers "put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe," highlighting the need for continued support for officer safety initiatives.
The Memphis Police Department has since implemented various reforms and safety measures, though specific changes related to pursuit protocols have not been publicly detailed. The department continues to honor Smith's memory through annual commemorations and the ongoing community programs he championed.
Officer Smith left behind children, a fiancée, and his father. His sacrifice serves as a lasting reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers who place public safety above their own lives, especially in situations involving violent criminals and vulnerable civilians.
