A “selfless” Suffolk detective who specialised in safeguarding has died, believed to be from a cardiac arrest. Acting Detective Sergeant Matt Burgin-Powell, 32, had served with Suffolk Police for seven years and passed away on Monday.
In a statement released by Suffolk Police Federation, his husband Luke described him as “a selfless young man in life, and in death,” noting that Matt had already saved three lives by donating his organs.
A federation spokesperson said Burgin-Powell was known for his “outstanding professionalism, along with his care for colleagues and the public.” Federation chairman Darren Harris added: “Matt represented the best of Suffolk Police and his loss is undoubtedly being felt right across the force – and will be for some time. He was a dedicated, respected and popular officer who wanted to protect the public while also being there for his colleagues as well.”
Acting Det Sgt Burgin-Powell joined Suffolk Police in 2018 and worked closely with some of the county’s most vulnerable residents in his safeguarding role. Emma Arthurs-Newman, the federation equality and wellbeing lead, said: “Matt was a brilliant police officer and will be a massive loss to policing. He will be hugely missed.”
She also encouraged colleagues to “be there for one another” following the news of his death, and reminded staff that support from the federation is available.
Suffolk Police confirmed that Acting Det Sgt Burgin-Powell’s life will be honoured with a force funeral, with details to be shared once arrangements are confirmed.
