A heroic campus police officer was gunned down while protecting patients and families in a North Carolina hospital emergency room, sacrificing his life to prevent further bloodshed in yet another senseless act of violence against those who serve our communities.
Story Summary
- WakeMed campus officer Roger Smith, 59, was murdered in the hospital lobby while on duty.
- Medical personnel confirmed that Smith’s heroic actions likely prevented additional casualties.
- Suspect Benji Martin Jr., 29, charged with murder in Saturday morning shooting.
- Governor and police chief praise Smith’s ultimate sacrifice in protecting innocent lives.
Hero Officer Falls in Line of Duty
Roger Smith, a 59-year-old WakeMed campus police officer, was fatally shot around 9 a.m. Saturday, while working in the emergency department lobby of WakeMed Garner Healthplex.
The veteran officer was protecting patients and their families when 29-year-old Garner resident Benji Martin Jr. opened fire in the medical facility. Smith’s dedication to service cost him his life, but his final act of courage saved others from harm.
Officer Roger Smith, 59, WakeMed campus police officer shot and killed Sat morning at WakeMed Garner Healthplex emergency department lobby after a "struggle." Worked for Knightdale PD 1997-2013. With WakeMed 10+ years.
Benji Martin Jr of Garner charged murder.
#NorthCarolina pic.twitter.com/Pc7F5RcfWI— The Last Show- Karen Lee (@thelastshow) November 9, 2025
Medical Staff Confirms Life-Saving Actions
Healthcare personnel who witnessed the tragic shooting described Officer Smith as a hero whose quick response prevented additional casualties.
The medical staff’s testimony underscores the split-second decisions law enforcement officers face when confronting armed threats in public spaces.
Smith’s professional training and selfless instincts kicked in during the crisis, demonstrating the thin blue line that stands between chaos and safety in our communities.
Leadership Honors Ultimate Sacrifice
Garner Police Chief Chris Adams emphasized that Officer Smith dedicated his entire career to protecting others, maintaining that commitment even in his final moments.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein acknowledged the officer’s sacrifice on social media, recognizing that law enforcement personnel routinely risk their lives for public safety.
The unified response from leadership highlights the respect and gratitude owed to officers who make the ultimate sacrifice while serving their communities.
Man charged with murder after NC officer killed in hospital ER shooting https://t.co/pG5TUuPx64
— WPDE ABC15 (@wpdeabc15) November 9, 2025
Murder Charges Filed Against Suspect
Authorities have charged Benji Martin Jr. with murder in connection with Officer Smith’s death. The suspect’s motivation remains unclear, but the deliberate targeting of a uniformed officer in a healthcare facility represents a particularly heinous crime.
This tragic incident reinforces the dangerous reality facing law enforcement officers who never know when routine duties might turn deadly, leaving families and communities mourning heroes who answered the call to serve.
