TULIA, TX. (THECOUNT) — Kavin Powell, Sr., 39, was found dead inside his Tulia home Monday morning, and authorities have confirmed his death is being investigated as a homicide. The Texas Rangers have taken over the investigation as local and state officials work to determine who was responsible and what led to the killing.
According to the Tulia Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 7:50 a.m. to a residence located at 224 S. Briscoe Avenue after a 911 call was received. When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered the homeowner deceased inside the residence.
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Police later identified the victim as Kavin Powell, Sr., a 39-year-old man who lived at the address. Authorities have not released details regarding the nature of Powell’s injuries, how long he may have been dead before being discovered, or whether any weapons were recovered from the scene.
Law enforcement officials confirmed that Powell’s death is being treated as a homicide. Due to the seriousness of the case, the investigation has been transferred from the Tulia Police Department to the Texas Rangers, who routinely assist local agencies with major violent crime investigations in Texas.
“The investigation has been turned over to the Texas Rangers,” Tulia police said in a statement. “This is an ongoing and active criminal investigation.”
A spokesperson with the Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed that the Texas Rangers are leading the case and will ultimately submit their findings to the Swisher County District Attorney’s Office for review and any potential prosecution.
Authorities have not released information regarding suspects, possible motives, or whether investigators believe the homicide was targeted. It is also unclear if there were signs of forced entry at the home or if Powell was known to the person or persons responsible for his death.
The neighborhood surrounding South Briscoe Avenue was quiet Monday as investigators processed the scene and canvassed the area. Police have not indicated whether nearby residents were asked to shelter in place or whether surveillance footage from surrounding homes or businesses is being reviewed.
Tulia is a small community in Swisher County in the Texas Panhandle, and violent crimes of this nature are relatively uncommon in the area. As a result, the investigation has drawn attention from residents as authorities work to determine what occurred inside the home.
Officials emphasized that the investigation remains in its early stages. No arrest information has been released, and no timeline has been provided for when additional details may become public.
Law enforcement agencies are urging anyone who may have information related to Powell’s death to come forward. Investigators say even seemingly minor details could be critical in determining what happened.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Tulia Police Department or the Texas Rangers. Tips may help investigators establish a timeline, identify persons of interest, or locate evidence connected to the homicide.
Authorities have stated that updates will be released as more information becomes available and once it can be confirmed through the ongoing investigation.
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