Plainfield Police Department, New Jersey
End of Watch Friday, March 15, 1985
Add to My HeroesAbigail J. Powlett
Officer Powlett was shot and killed by a suspect who had overpowered her and taken her as a hostage. Officer Powlett and another officer had responded to a call involving a man with a gun. The two officers made contact with the suspect and as Officer Powlett searched him the man began to resist and gained control of Officer Powlett's service weapon.
The suspect held Officer Powlett on the ground with the gun pressed against her head. Other officers responded to the scene and immediately began negotiating with the suspect. Without warning, the suspect shot Officer Powlett in the head, killing her. The other officers returned fire, fatally wounding the suspect.
Officer Powlett had served with the Plainfield Police Department for 3 years. She was survived by her mother and two children.
Bio
- Age 33
- Tour 3 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Officer's handgun
- Offender Shot and killed
Most Recent Reflection
View all 50 ReflectionsThoughts and prayers to Officer Powlett's family and loved ones and to all of the Plainfield Police Officers who knew her, worked with her and who especially were with her on that horrible, dark day. Officer Powlett, thank you for your service and know that your sacrifice will never be forgotten by your law enforcement brethren.
Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)
October 7, 2020
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