A campus police officer at WakeMed Garner Healthplex in North Carolina died after a shooting incident in the lobby of the hospital’s emergency department Nov. 8.
Officer Roger Smith was on duty Nov. 8 when he was shot and killed after a “struggle” ensued in the emergency department lobby around 9 a.m., a spokesperson for Raleigh, N.C.-based WakeMed Health & Hospitals said in a statement.
“Our thoughts and prayers are now with the Smith family as they come to learn of this tragic event,” the health system said. “We give an enormous amount of gratitude to the Garner Healthplex Emergency Department staff for their heroic and quick response to this incident.”
Benji Martin Jr., 29, has been charged with murder in connection with Mr. Smith’s death, Garner police confirmed to NBC News. Mr. Martin was also shot during the incident, according to police. He remains hospitalized and is in custody under medical supervision. Officials have not shared a motive.
“Medical personnel at the scene described Officer Smith as a hero whose actions likely prevented further loss of life,” Garner police Capt. David Casteline said in a statement to NBC News. “His courage and selfless service exemplified the highest ideals of law enforcement.”
WakeMed said its leadership is working with investigators and that additional counselors are on site to support ED staff and campus police teams.
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