A Washington D.C. Metropolitan Police officer has died from injuries he sustained last month while performing a simple act of kindness: assisting a stranded driver.
A Tragic Incident on Duty
The Metropolitan Police Department announced the sad news on Thursday, 8th January 2026. Officer Terry Bennett, aged 32, had been in hospital since 23rd December after being hit by a passing vehicle. He was helping a motorist whose car had run out of fuel at the time of the incident.
The driver of the vehicle that struck him remained at the scene. A spokesman for the MPD confirmed that while no charges have yet been filed, the investigation into the collision remains active.
A Community Leader and Family Man
Terry Bennett was more than just an officer; he was a dedicated community figure. The son of a former MPD officer, he joined the department in February 2018. Prior to his police service, he worked at his alma mater, Ballou Senior High School, first as an associate dean and later as the assistant head coach and defensive coordinator for the school's football team.
In a statement, Interim Police Chief Jeffery Carroll described Bennett as a "model officer" and a born-and-raised Washingtonian committed to making a positive impact. "He dedicated himself to bettering the lives of young people," Carroll said, calling the loss devastating for both the force and the city.
Mayor Muriel Bowser praised Bennett, stating he lost his life doing "what he was known to do — helping and caring for the people around him." She highlighted his legacy of love and courage through coaching, mentorship, and public service. Bennett is survived by his wife and young son.
A Solemn Tribute and a Challenging Context
On Thursday, a solemn procession marked the movement of Officer Bennett's body. Hundreds of officers from the MPD, U.S. Park Police, U.S. Capitol Police, and the National Guard lined North Capitol Street as he was transported from MedStar Washington Hospital Center to the D.C. Medical Examiner.
His death marks the 127th line of duty death in the Metropolitan Police Department's 164-year history, and the first since 2024. It occurs during a difficult period for the force, which has faced scrutiny over its cooperation with federal agents and saw its police chief step down recently. The department was also temporarily taken over by President Donald Trump's administration for a month last year as part of a federal crime-fighting initiative.
The community and his colleagues are now united in grief, remembering an officer whose career was defined by service to his hometown.
