Washington– A Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police officer who was struck by a car last month while helping a stranded motorist has died from his injuries, the department announced Thursday.
Terry Bennett, 32, had been hospitalized since December 23 when he was hit by a passing car while helping a motorist who had run out of gas. The driver who hit him remained at the scene. An MPD spokesperson said no charges have been filed but the incident remains under investigation.
Bennett’s death comes at a difficult time for the area’s police department, which President Donald Trump took over for a month last year as part of what the department described as a crime-fighting mission. The police force has been under scrutiny for cooperating with federal agents, including immigration enforcement officers, and the police chief recently resigned from his position.
“The men and women of the Metropolitan Police Department stand shoulder to shoulder with Officer Bennett’s family and friends as they deal with this unimaginable loss,” Interim Police Chief Jeffrey Carroll said in a statement. “Officer Bennett was an exemplary officer, born and raised in Washington who wanted to have a positive impact on his community, and dedicated himself to improving the lives of young people. This loss is devastating to both our department and our city. I ask all Washingtonians to reflect on Officer Bennett’s sacrifices and to keep his family in their thoughts and prayers.”
Bennett, who is survived by his wife and son, was the son of a former MPD officer. He joined the department in February 2018.
Mayor Muriel Bowser paid tribute to Bennett and said he lost his life doing “what he was known for — helping and caring for the people around him.” She said the officer was deeply committed to the community. Prior to joining the department, he served at his alma mater, Palo Senior High School, first as associate dean and more recently as an assistant coach and defensive coordinator for the Palo football team. “Through his training, mentorship and public service, he impacted the lives of countless students and Washingtonians and left behind a legacy of love and courage,” she said.
Bowser offered her prayers to the officer, his family and fellow officers.
Hundreds of MPD officers, US Park Police, US Capitol Police and National Guard members lined North Capitol Street on Thursday as his body was transported four miles from MedStar Washington Hospital Center to the D.C. Medical Examiner.
Bennett is the 127th line-of-duty death in the department’s 164-year history and the first since 2024.