In the quiet Litwalton section of Lancaster, Virginia, a routine call for service ended in tragedy for a dedicated law enforcement officer. Sergeant Donald C. Benson, Sr., a 34-year-old male with eight years of service to the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office, was a respected figure in his community. His life was cut short on November 5, 1981, from a fatal gunshot wound he sustained a day prior while in the line of duty.
The incident unfolded as Sergeant Benson and another deputy attempted to serve a court order for an emergency mental health evaluation. As they approached the suspect's residence, the man unexpectedly opened the door and discharged a. 25 caliber handgun. The shot struck Sergeant Benson, inflicting the mortal wound. The second deputy on the scene immediately returned fire, injuring the suspect in the abdomen.
Following the exchange of gunfire, the suspect was taken into custody. Rather than facing a criminal trial, the individual was committed to a state hospital for mental health treatment. Sergeant Benson was survived by his wife, son, and daughter, leaving behind a grieving family and a community in mourning for the loss of a dedicated public servant.
