WakeMed Campus Police Officer Fatally Shot During Struggle in Garner Hospital Emergency Department

Garner, North Carolina — November 8, 2025 — According to ABC 13 News, a WakeMed campus police officer was shot and killed during a confrontation inside the emergency department lobby of the hospital.

Authorities identified the victim as Officer Roger Smith, who served with the WakeMed Campus Police Department. The shooting occurred at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex, according to a statement from the hospital.

Garner Police confirmed that a person of interest was taken into custody shortly after the incident. Later that morning, investigators announced the arrest of 29-year-old Benji Martin Jr., who has been charged with murder in connection with Officer Smith’s death.

“This is a heartbreaking and senseless act of violence,” said Garner Police Chief Adams in a statement. “Officer Smith dedicated his career to protecting others, and even in his final moments, he put the safety of others before his own.”

The emergency department lobby was temporarily closed as local and state investigators processed the scene. Hospital officials stated that they are fully cooperating with law enforcement while providing support to staff and patients affected by the tragedy.

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein also expressed condolences, saying, “Law enforcement officers put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe, and we are forever grateful for Officer Smith’s sacrifice.”

Garner, a city of about 31,000 residents just south of Raleigh, is one of several communities served by the WakeMed police department, which provides sworn law enforcement coverage for six health facilities within the system.

Officials said additional details about the incident will be released as the investigation continues.

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Notes: Our team created this post using secondary sources and has not independently verified all the facts surrounding the accident. If you find any incorrect details, please contact the Ramsay Law Firm so we can update the post with the most accurate information. This post will be removed if requested.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice and is not a solicitation for business. The photograph used in this post is not representative of this accident. If you are injured in an accident, seek medical attention immediately, then speak to a North Carolina personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.