Deputy Basil Powell, a 39-year-old man, was fatally shot outside his home in Belle Glade, Florida, on the evening of February 10, 2025. Powell, who was off duty at the time, was with his 5-year-old daughter when the attack occurred. According to investigators, the shooting was a targeted ambush, with Powell being fired upon immediately as he exited his vehicle. His girlfriend, who was on the phone with him at the time, reported hearing gunshots in rapid succession before Powell faintly uttered, "CALL 911, I BEEN SHOT." When deputies arrived, Powell was found lying outside his home, unresponsive, with multiple gunshot wounds to his front and back. He was transported to St. Mary's Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Authorities recovered approximately 12 expended cartridge cases from a 9mm firearm near Powell’s front door, along with bullet holes in the door and windows. The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office launched an investigation, leading to the arrest of 32-year-old Kevin Benette. Benette was taken into custody on February 13, 2025, and faced a judge the following morning, where he was ordered to be held without bond. Sheriff Ric Bradshaw announced that Benette would be charged with first-degree murder. Investigators determined that the motive behind the attack was domestic-related, as Powell was in a relationship with Benette’s former girlfriend. The sheriff described Benette as having a violent past and noted that the murder weapon had not yet been recovered.
Powell had been employed as a corrections deputy at the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office since October 2021, working at the West Corrections Center in Belle Glade. Officials emphasized that his killing was unrelated to his role as a corrections officer. Following his death, a candlelight vigil was held in Belle Glade on February 11, 2025, to honor his memory. The sheriff’s office expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting the impact on the department and Powell’s colleagues. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence related to the case.
