Police Officer Terry William Bennett

Police Officer Terry William Bennett

San Diego Police Department, California

End of Watch Thursday, June 26, 2003

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Terry William Bennett

Police Officer Terry Bennett was killed when his police motorcycle was intentionally rammed during a vehicle pursuit at approximately 12:30 pm.

Officer Bennett was chasing a stolen work truck when the driver made a U-turn and drove toward Officer Bennett near the intersection of Kenwood Street and Iona Drive. Officer Bennett attempted to abandon his motorcycle and run to safety when the man intentionally drove onto the sidewalk and struck him. The driver was apprehended approximately ten minutes later. Officer Bennett was transported to Scripps Memorial Hospital where he died from his injuries approximately three hours later.

The 37-year-old offender, an ex-convict with a long criminal history, was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to life without the possibility of parole on March 15th, 2005.

Officer Bennett had served with the San Diego Police Department for 13 years. He is survived by his wife and two young children.

Bio

  • Age 38
  • Tour 13 years
  • Badge 4761

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Weapon Automobile
  • Offender Sentenced to life

vehicle pursuit

Most Recent Reflection

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I remember Terry back when he was going through academy when he worked at Sears Service Center in El Cajon, CA. When I heard Terry was in the motorcade, I knew he'd do very well, since, like myself we grew up riding motorcycles off road since we were around 5 years old. Terry repaired washers/dryers while studying to be a police officer. It's still hard to believe this tragedy happened. I remember when he married Michelle, she was the dispatcher at the service center. We've got another great guy that worked with Terry and I who became a fire captain for San Miguel. Captain Brian Komp. I sort of stumbled upon this site, and like the rest of us here, I haven't forgotten you Terry.

Civilian friend
William Albright
San Diego East County resident.

May 28, 2023

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