Terry Bennett, aged 32, a Metropolitan Police Officer in Washington, D.C., passed away due to injuries he sustained on December 23 after being hit by a passing car while assisting a driver who had run out of fuel. He had been hospitalized since the incident occurred. The driver involved stayed at the scene, and although no charges have been filed at this time, the investigation into the incident is ongoing, according to officials from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
This loss underscores a difficult period for the MPD, which has recently faced heightened federal presence and scrutiny. Last year, former President Donald Trump assumed temporary command of the force for one month in an initiative the administration termed a crime fighting mission. Meanwhile, cooperation between the MPD and federal agencies, including immigration enforcement units, has drawn criticism, and the department experienced the resignation of its police chief.
Interim Police Chief Jeffery Carroll issued a statement expressing solidarity with Officer Bennett’s loved ones and emphasizing the profound impact of the loss. "Officer Bennett was a model officer, a born and raised Washingtonian who wanted to make a positive impact on his community, dedicating himself to bettering the lives of young people," Carroll said. He called for residents to reflect on Bennett's sacrifice and keep his family in their thoughts and prayers.
Bennett joined the MPD in February 2018 and came from a family with law enforcement ties, being the son of a former department officer. He is survived by his wife and son.
Before his tenure with the police department, Bennett worked at Ballou Senior High School, his alma mater, where he served as an associate dean. He later took on responsibilities as the assistant head coach and defensive coordinator for the school’s football team. Mayor Muriel Bowser highlighted Bennett's dedication to his community, noting his commitment to helping and caring for those around him. Bowser remarked that Bennett's coaching and mentorship touched many lives in Washington, leaving behind a legacy marked by love and courage. She extended her prayers to Bennett’s family and colleagues within the police force.
On Thursday, a solemn procession took place along North Capitol Street as hundreds of officers from the MPD, alongside U.S. Park Police, U.S. Capitol Police, and National Guard members, paid their respects while transporting Bennett’s body from MedStar Washington Hospital Center to the D.C. Medical Examiner. Bennett's death represents the 127th line-of-duty fatality in the 164-year history of the Metropolitan Police Department and is the first to occur since the beginning of 2024.