A hospital police officer named Roger Smith was shot and killed in a WakeMed hospital emergency room in North Carolina, and a suspect is now under arrest.
"Following an extensive investigation and consulting with the Wake County District Attorney’s Office, the suspect, Benji Martin Jr., 29, of Garner, NC, has been charged with murder in connection with Officer Smith’s death," Garner police wrote in a news release.
The shooting death of WakeMed Campus Police Officer Roger Smith occurred on Saturday, November 8, 2025, "at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex located off U.S. Highway 70," Garner police added.
"At approximately 9 a.m., officers with the Garner Police Department responded to a report of a shooting inside the emergency department lobby. Upon arrival, officers found Officer Smith, 59, suffering from a gunshot wound," police wrote.
"Despite immediate life-saving efforts by medical staff and first responders, Officer Smith succumbed to his injuries."
Medical personnel at the scene "described Officer Smith as a hero whose actions likely prevented further loss of life. His courage and selfless service exemplified the highest ideals of law enforcement," wrote Garner police.
“This is a heartbreaking and senseless act of violence,” said Garner Police Chief Adams in the release. “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 detectives "continue to work closely with the WakeMed Campus Police Department, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), and the Wake County District Attorney’s Office to ensure a thorough review of all evidence in this case," the release says.
WakeMed told ABC11 that Smith, 59, "was working in the hospital's emergency department lobby" when a struggle occurred, and he was shot. The tragedy occurred on the morning of November 8 in Garner, NC.
"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," North Carolina's Governor Josh Stein wrote on X.