Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Wheelchair-User Charged with Murder in Officer’s Death

1/11/2026

37 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Jerrold Coates, 47, was ordered held without bond by a D.C. judge on second-degree murder in death of Officer Terry Bennett, 32.
Witnesses said Coates' vehicle sped, over 60 mph, on I-695.
Police detected alcohol on Coates and found marijuana in his car.
Coates, who uses a wheelchair, said his hand controls malfunctioned and he had no memory.
Bennett died January 7, 2026, after 15 days in critical condition.

1 of 1

Story summary

Jerrold Coates, 47, was ordered held without bond by a D.C. judge on second-degree murder in death of Officer Terry Bennett, 32.
Witnesses said Coates' vehicle sped, over 60 mph, on I-695.
Police detected alcohol on Coates and found marijuana in his car.
Coates, who uses a wheelchair, said his hand controls malfunctioned and he had no memory.
Bennett died January 7, 2026, after 15 days in critical condition.