GARNER, N.C. (WNCN) — A hospital police officer in Wake County, North Carolina, killed Saturday morning has been hailed as a "hero," with officials saying he likely prevented other deaths during a struggle with an alleged gunman.

At around 9 a.m. Saturday, law enforcement says Officer Roger Smith, 59, was shot in the emergency department lobby of WakeMed Garner Healthplex in Garner, North Carolina. Smith died from his injuries at WakeMed Raleigh, about 10 miles away, the healthcare provider said in a statement.

Benji Martin Jr., 29, of Garner, has since been charged with murder in Smith's death.

While details are limited, authorities said a struggle broke out just before Smith was shot in the lobby.

"Medical personnel at the scene described Officer Smith as a hero whose actions likely

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