The Metropolitan Police Department said Thursday an officer has died in a hospital, weeks after being hit by a speeding driver while helping a stranded motorist on Interstate 695.
The department said Officer Terry Bennett, a 32-year-old native of the District, died late Wednesday.
A police spokesman said a procession was planned Thursday to honor the eight-year MPD veteran who worked in the department’s 1st District.
“Officer Terry Bennett tragically lost his life in the line of duty while doing what he was known to do — helping and caring for the people around him,” D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser said in a statement. “He was a father, a husband, and a beloved member of our community.”
On Dec. 23, authorities said Officer Bennett was assisting a driver whose car broke down just after 10 p.m. in the eastbound I-695 lanes near South Capitol Street.
A passing motorist driving “at a high rate of speed” struck Officer Bennett, police said.
Bystander videos of the incident showed officers loading him into the back of a squad car and racing off to a hospital before ambulances could arrive.
Police said the driver accused of hitting Officer Bennett stayed at the scene. They were treated for minor injuries at an area hospital.
The stranded motorist was not injured during the incident.
“The men and women of the Metropolitan Police Department stand shoulder to shoulder with Officer Bennett’s family and friends as they process this unimaginable loss,” interim Police Chief Jeffery Carroll said.
“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,” Chief Carroll said. “This loss is devastating for both our department and our city. I ask that all Washingtonians reflect on Officer Bennett’s sacrifice and keep his family in their thoughts and prayers.”
Officials said the crash remains under investigation by police detectives. It’s unclear if the driver will be charged in Officer Bennett’s death.
U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro said earlier this week that her office has not been following the investigation into the crash.
Officer Bennett joined the Metropolitan Police Department in February 2018.
Before joining the force, Ms. Bowser said Officer Bennett worked as an associate dean at his alma mater, Ballou Senior High School in Southeast.
He later took on the role of assistant head coach and defensive coordinator for the Knights football team.
“Through his coaching, mentorship and public service, he impacted the lives of countless students and Washingtonians and leaves behind a legacy of love and courage,” the mayor said.
