Officer Killed in the Line of Duty
Date of Death: January 7, 2026
Rank: Officer
Age: 32
Years of Service: 7
Circumstance
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is deeply saddened to announce the line of duty death of Officer Terry Bennett after he was struck by a vehicle while assisting a motorist on I-695.
On Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at approximately 10:10 pm, Officer Bennett was assisting a motorist who ran out of gas in the eastbound lanes of I-695 near South Capitol Street. Officer Bennett was struck by a secondary motorist at a high rate of speed. Fellow officers immediately began rendering care and Bennett was transported to a local hospital. Officer Bennett succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
Biography
Officer Terry Bennett was a nearly 8-year veteran of MPD. Bennett joined MPD in February 2018 and was assigned to the First District after graduating from the Metropolitan Police Academy. Bennett was born and raised in DC and was a graduate of Ballou Senior High School. Bennett graduated from Bucknell University prior to joining MPD.
From the beginning of his career, Officer Bennett demonstrated a constant commitment to building trust and strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the DC community. Officer Bennett devoted over a decade to mentoring young people as a coach at Ballou Senior High School where he served as assistant head football coach and defensive coordinator. Officer Bennett was recognized by his peers and the community for his positive impact on countless students. Officer Bennett’s commitment to others is exemplified by his decision to be an organ donor, a selfless act that will make a lasting impact for years to come. Officer Bennett is survived by his wife and young son.
Officer Bennett's commitment and dedication to the Metropolitan Police Department and the District of Columbia will never be forgotten.
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