Indiana State Police, Indiana
End of Watch: Friday, February 27, 1959
Age: 27
Tour of Duty: 4 years, 2 months
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Struck by vehicle
Date of Incident: February 27, 1959
Weapon Used: Not available
Suspect Info: Not available
Trooper John Powell was struck and killed by a vehicle one mile south of State Road 16 on U.S. 41 near Kentland in Newton County.
Trooper Powell and several other troopers were setting out an electronic speed timing device at about 9:30 pm. As Trooper Powell was leaning over the pavement, a 17-year-old driver who was passing another vehicle struck Trooper Powell over the head, killing him instantly.
Trooper Powell had served with the Indiana State Police for over four years and was assigned to the Kentland post. He was survived by his wife, three children, brother, four sisters and parents.