Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, California
End of Watch: Saturday, November 30, 2002
Age: 42
Tour of Duty: 18 years
Badge Number: Not available
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Date of Incident: November 30, 2002
Weapon Used: Handgun; .380 caliber
Suspect Info: Shot and killed
Deputy Sheriff David Powell was shot and killed after he and his partner responded to reports of gunshots near 166th Street and Elaine Avenue in Artesia at about 10:30 am.
When the officers arrived, they observed a man run into a home and take a woman hostage. As Deputy Powell attempted to kick the door open, the man fired two shots from inside. One of the rounds struck Deputy Powell in the right arm, passed through the opening in his vest, and entered his chest. Deputy Powell's partner returned fire and dragged Deputy Powell to his patrol car. He then drove Deputy Powell one block away where he was met by paramedics.
Deputy Powell was transported to St. Francis Medical Center where he succumbed to his wound 90 minutes after the shooting. The subject was shot and killed by responding officers.
Deputy Powell had served with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department for 18 years. He is survived by his wife, four daughters, parents, brother, and seven grandchildren.