Jeffrey Todd Hewitt, a 34-year-old white male, died on April 4, 2004, in Asheville, North Carolina. Hewitt was a Sergeant with the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office and a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. On the night of his death, he was serving mental commitment papers at a residence on Fairhaven Court. Hewitt and three other deputies were involved in this operation due to a domestic disturbance earlier in the evening. Upon arrival, they encountered a locked gate.
Hewitt climbed over the gate and observed the suspect hiding in the bushes with a shotgun. As Hewitt warned the other officers and ordered the suspect to drop the weapon, the suspect opened fire, fatally wounding Hewitt. The other officers returned fire, wounding the suspect, who then fled a short distance before committing suicide.
Hewitt's actions in warning his fellow officers are credited with saving their lives. He had served with the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office for 11 years and was a member of the Edward Squad and the Special Response Team . Hewitt was also a six-year veteran of the Marine Corps, having served as a Sergeant with the Military Police during Operation Desert Storm.
In the aftermath of Hewitt's death, the suspect's suicide meant there were no further arrests or litigations directly related to the incident. However, Hewitt's legacy has been honored in various ways. On October 29, 2010, the new bridge on NC 146 over the French Broad River at I-26 was named the Sergeant Hewitt Memorial Bridge in his honor. Additionally, the inaugural Sgt. Jeff Hewitt Memorial 5K Run and Memorial Walk was held on April 5, 2014, with proceeds going to the Sgt. Jeff Hewitt Memorial Scholarship at Asheville-Buncombe Technological Community College. This scholarship is awarded annually to a student pursuing a career in law enforcement.
Hewitt's death had a profound impact on the community and his colleagues. Reflections and tributes from fellow officers and community members highlight his dedication, bravery, and selflessness. His actions on the night of April 4, 2004, are remembered as a testament to his commitment to protecting others, even at the cost of his own life.
