Authorities have released new details about a deadly shooting that took place at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex on US-70 in Garner, North Carolina, early Saturday morning. The tragic incident left a WakeMed police officer dead and the suspect, identified as 29-year-old Benji Martin Jr, injured.
Suspect in Custody After Exchange of Gunfire
According to the Garner Police Department, Benji Martin Jr, a resident of Garner, was shot during the altercation and is currently under medical supervision. “WakeMed could not release information about his condition,” the hospital told ABC11.
Authorities confirmed that once discharged, Martin will be transferred to the Wake County Detention Center and charged with murder in connection with the officer’s death.
Officer Roger Smith Remembered as a Dedicated Public Servant
The victim, Officer Roger Smith, 59, was shot while on duty in the hospital lobby. Despite immediate efforts by medical staff to save his life, he succumbed to his injuries.
A 14-year veteran of WakeMed’s public safety team and a former Knightdale police officer, Smith was remembered as a selfless protector who “prioritized the safety of others.”
Garner Police Chief Chris Adams described the incident as a “heartbreaking and senseless act of violence.”
Community and Law Enforcement Pay Tribute
In a solemn show of respect, a law enforcement procession of nearly 100 police and fire vehicles escorted Officer Smith’s body from WakeMed to the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Raleigh.
The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is assisting local authorities in determining the circumstances that led to the fatal shooting.
Ongoing Investigation
Officials continue to piece together what triggered the shooting inside the hospital. Both the Garner Police Department and the SBI have urged the public to avoid speculation as the investigation remains active.
