A tragic incident unfolded at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex where Officer Roger Smith was shot and killed while on duty in the emergency room lobby on Saturday at around 9 a.m., according to WRAL News. The suspect, 29-year-old Benji Martin Jr. of Garner, has been charged with murder in Smith's death and was also shot during the altercation. Currently, Martin is under medical supervision in the hospital and will be transferred to the Wake County Detention Center upon his release.
In the wake of the shooting, WakeMed Health & Hospitals released a statement, highlighted by NBC News, expressing deep condolences and describing Officer Smith as a hero whose actions likely prevented further loss of life. Smith, 59, had served as part of WakeMed's public safety team for over a decade after a lengthy tenure with the Knightdale Police Department from 1997 to 2013. He is remembered by colleagues and friends for his eagerness to serve and professional dedication to community safety.
Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the heartbreaking and senseless act of violence, as stated by Garner Police Chief Chris Adams in a quote obtained by ABC11. The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is assisting the Garner Police in the ongoing investigation to determine the precise series of events leading up to the fatal shooting. Amidst public mourning, a procession of 60 to 100 law enforcement and fire vehicles was held from WakeMed to the N.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Raleigh in honor of Officer Smith.
Following the incident, local government and law enforcement agencies took to social media to express their sympathies and acknowledge the loss. Governor Josh Stein extended his heartfelt thoughts to Officer Smith's family, as he reported on X, and referenced Smith's courage in his protective role, mirroring sentiments from local authorities. Garner High School contemporary and friend, Steven Moore, told WRAL News, "For it to be somebody that you were once really close to, it's very heartbreaking." Agencies including the Raleigh Police Department and the Wake County Sheriff's Office shared similar messages of sorrow and unity, standing with WakeMed Police Department during this difficult time.
Officer Smith's impact was felt not only among the ranks of law enforcement but also within the wider community, where local business owners like John Bilott, owner of the Twisted Willow Boutique, described him as a giving person to WRAL News.
