GARNER, N.C. (WNCN) — A Wake County hospital police officer killed Saturday morning in Garner was a "hero" who likely prevented other deaths during a struggle with a gunman who shot the officer and was later charged with his murder, according to Garner Police and WakeMed officials.

According to law enforcement officials, the shooting occurred around 9 a.m. Saturday at the WakeMed Garner Healthplex on U.S. 70.

A statement from WakeMed said that Officer Roger Smith, 59, of Knightdale, died from his gunshot injuries at WakeMed Raleigh on New Bern Avenue. Authorities said a struggle broke out just before Smith was shot in the emergency department lobby.

Late Saturday afternoon, Garner police said Benji Martin Jr., 29, of Garner, was charged with murder in the shooting death.

"Medical perso

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