In Loving Memory of Officer Roger Smith Honoring a Life of Service, Courage, and Sacrifice
GARNER, N.C. — The town of Garner, the WakeMed community, and countless others across North Carolina are mourning an unthinkable tragedy following the death of WakeMed Campus Police Officer Roger Smith, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on Saturday, November 8, 2025, while serving at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex off U.S. Highway 70.
Officer Smith’s death has sent waves of grief throughout the region, leaving behind a devastated family, heartbroken colleagues, and a community struggling to make sense of yet another senseless act of violence.
According to officials, the incident unfolded shortly before 10:00 a.m., when Officer Smith, 42, was performing his regular security and safety duties at the Garner Healthplex, a busy medical facility that serves as a critical care center for the community. Authorities say that during a confrontation in the parking area, an armed suspect opened fire, striking Officer Smith. Despite immediate efforts by medical personnel on-site to save his life, he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
The Garner Police Department, in coordination with the Wake County District Attorney’s Office and WakeMed Campus Police, launched an extensive investigation that led to the arrest of 29-year-old Benji Martin Jr. of Garner, North Carolina. Martin has been formally charged with murder in connection with Officer Smith’s death and remains in custody as prosecutors prepare to move forward with the case.
“This is a devastating loss — not only for WakeMed but for every person in this community who believes in service, compassion, and protecting others,” said Garner Police Chief Lorie Smith during a somber press conference Saturday evening. “Officer Roger Smith was more than an officer — he was a guardian, a friend, and a pillar of strength to everyone around him. We are committed to ensuring justice is served.”
WakeMed officials released a heartfelt statement expressing their sorrow and support for Officer Smith’s family and colleagues, calling him a dedicated protector and beloved member of the WakeMed family.
“Our hearts are broken. Officer Roger Smith was a kind, courageous professional who embodied WakeMed’s mission to care for others,” the statement read. “He stood watch every day to ensure that our patients, visitors, and staff were safe. His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Officer Smith had served with the WakeMed Campus Police Department for over eight years, earning the admiration and respect of his peers for his professionalism, warmth, and unwavering sense of duty. Friends and coworkers describe him as a man who always greeted people with a smile, often stopping to chat with patients and families just to make them feel more at ease.
“Roger was the heartbeat of our security team,” said one of his colleagues. “He had this calm, reassuring presence — you always felt safe when he was around. He treated everyone like family.”
Outside the WakeMed Garner Healthplex, a makeshift memorial has grown steadily since news of the shooting broke. Bouquets of flowers, blue ribbons, candles, and handwritten notes now line the walkway where Officer Smith once stood guard. Community members — from healthcare workers to local residents — have come together to mourn, share stories, and pray for peace.
Garner Mayor Ken Marshburn also issued a statement calling Officer Smith’s death “a heartbreaking loss for our entire community.”
“This tragedy reminds us of the selflessness and courage it takes to wear a badge,” Marshburn said. “Officer Smith dedicated his life to protecting others. We owe him and his family an unpayable debt of gratitude.”
The Wake County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing, with additional evidence being reviewed to determine whether further charges may be filed. District Attorney Lorrin Freeman emphasized that her office will pursue the case “with the full weight of the law.”
“This community lost a true public servant,” Freeman said. “We will ensure that justice is done and that Officer Smith’s sacrifice is honored.”
Officer Smith leaves behind his wife, two young children, and a legacy of service and kindness that will long outlive him. Friends say he was a devoted father who loved coaching his kids’ sports teams, grilling for neighborhood gatherings, and volunteering at community safety events.
“He wasn’t just a police officer,” said a family friend. “He was a husband who adored his wife, a dad who showed up for everything, and a friend who’d drop anything to help you. Roger represented the best of what it means to serve.”
In honor of Officer Smith, WakeMed and the Town of Garner plan to hold a candlelight vigil on Monday evening outside the Garner Healthplex. Additionally, WakeMed announced that its flags will be lowered to half-staff across all campuses in remembrance of their fallen officer.
As Garner and the entire state of North Carolina grapple with this profound loss, one sentiment echoes above all others — gratitude for a man who dedicated his life to protecting others, even at the greatest cost.
Officer Roger Smith’s death is not only a tragedy but a solemn reminder of the courage, humanity, and sacrifice that define those who serve. His name will forever stand among the heroes who gave everything in the line of duty.
“He protected people until his very last moment,” said one colleague through tears. “And now, it’s our turn to protect his memory.”
Leave a Reply