Tributes paid to Acting Detective Sergeant Matt Burgin-Powell

11 November 2025

Tributes have been paid to Acting Detective Sergeant Matt Burgin-Powell, a ‘selfless’ Suffolk Police officer who has died aged 32.

Matt served the Force for seven years and was known for his outstanding professionalism, along with his care for colleagues and the public.

He died on Monday evening (10 November) following a cardiac arrest. 

Matt is survived by his husband, Luke, who is also a serving Suffolk Police officer.

Luke said: “Matt was a selfless young man in life and in death.

“He took his pledge to preserve life seriously, and this has continued since he passed on Monday, 10 November, with Matt donating his organs, which have already gone on to save three lives.”

Acting Detective Sergeant Matt Burgin-Powell.

Matt joined Suffolk Police in October 2018. He worked on response, perfecting his skills as a police officer, and eventually moved to CID where he worked in the main office and in safeguarding, looking after the most vulnerable.

Suffolk Police Federation chair Darren Harris said: “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 serve and protect the public and was there for colleagues as well.

“The thoughts of everyone at Suffolk Police Federation are with Matt’s husband Luke, and his family, friends, and close colleagues at this difficult time.”

Brilliant officer

Emma Arthurs-Newman, Suffolk Police 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, and we extend our thoughts to his family, friends, and colleagues.

“We know many of our members will be impacted by this upsetting news. Please take time to remember Matt and to be there for one another.

“The Federation is here for you, should you require further support.”

Matt’s life will be celebrated with a Force funeral, and the details will be shared when they are available.