Beckley Police Department, West Virginia
End of Watch: Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Age: 29
Tour of Duty: 5 years, 6 months
Badge Number: 220
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: August 29, 2006
Weapon Used: Handgun; .357 caliber
Suspect Info: Sentenced to life
Corporal Charles Smith was shot and killed as he and another officer participated in an undercover narcotics purchase on South Fayette Street at approximately 4:00 am.
During the purchase one of the suspects opened fire, fatally wounding Corporal Smith.
Two suspects were apprehended a short time later and charged with first degree murder. Both were subsequently sentenced to life in prison.
Corporal Smith had served with the Beckley Police Department for 5.5 years. He is survived by his wife and 2-year-old daughter.