Officer Oliver Wendell Smith, Jr.

Officer Oliver Wendell Smith, Jr. | Metropolitan Police Department, District of Columbia
Metropolitan Police Department, District of Columbia
Officer Oliver Wendell Smith, Jr.

Metropolitan Police Department, District of Columbia

End of Watch Wednesday, February 26, 1997

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Oliver Wendell Smith, Jr.

Officer Oliver Smith was shot and killed outside of his apartment in Forestville, Maryland, while off duty during a robbery attempt. Officer Smith was returning home from his shift in civilian clothes when three suspects approached him as he was exiting his vehicle outside of his home. During the robbery they made him lie face down. As they searched him they found his duty weapon and badge and then shot him three times in the back of his head as he lay on the ground. The three suspects were arrested and charged with first degree murder.

Officer Smith had served with the agency for three years. He was survived by his wife and five year old son.

Bio

  • Age 27
  • Tour 3 years
  • Badge 3361

Incident Details

  • Cause Gunfire
  • Location Maryland
  • Weapon Handgun
  • Offender Charged with first degree murder
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Most Recent Reflection

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I copied and posted this from the Metropolitan Police of Washington D.C. History FB page. I believe it belongs here. Many who know me are aware of my contribution to MPD's Line of Duty Roll of Honor. I've been asked many times over the yrs why remember our fallen, cant we just move ahead and not dwell on the past ?
This reflection was left on Fallen officer Oliver W Smith's Page and was written by another Officer from another Jurisdiction;
Officer Smith,
I had the pleasure of meeting your wife today. I was called to her residence for an alarm. As I was checking the basement I saw a wall with pictures of you. When I asked your wife about you she immediately teared up. Your son was there and he looks like he has grown up just fine. I would have never thought that I would come across the spouse of a fallen officer but now I have. I want you to rest at ease and know that your family is in good hands in my town. Thank you for your service and for making the ultimate sacrifice. Your truely are a hero in my eyes. Rest at peace my brother officer.
Anonymous Officer
March 6, 2009

a Greatful Private citizen
N/A

August 10, 2019

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