Patrolman Gilbert D. Benitez

Gilbert D. Benitez

Patrolman Gilbert Benitez was shot and killed as he and his partner attempted to arrest two robbery suspects.

The suspects, who the officers were chasing, crashed into a parked car at St. Claude and Anthony Streets. In an exchange of gunfire Patrolman Benitez was shot in the face. Both suspects were arrested minutes later in the downtown area after a shootout with several officers.

Patrolman Benitez's killer was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death, but his sentence was later commuted to life. He died in prison on August 3, 2006. The other suspect was sentenced to life.

Patrolman Benitez had served with the New Orleans Police Department for four years and was assigned to the juvenile division. He was survived by his wife, two children, and three stepchildren.