High Profile Police Investigation

I have received several inquires regarding the murder-suicide incident in Washington state and the involvement of the West Valley City Police. There are few words to describe these tragic and shocking events. West Valley City police will continue to be diligent and cooperative within their respective roles and efforts of this case. Below is the official city response:



Response to the Devastating Circumstances at the Joshua Powell Residence

The West Valley City Police Department has been in contact with the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, State of Washington and is aware of the devastating explosion and subsequent fire at the residence of Joshua Powell in the City of Graham. It is our understanding that Joshua Powell and his two sons, Braden and Charles, perished as a result of this horrific incident. The West Valley City Police Department is deeply saddened by this tragic event and extends their deepest condolences to all those impacted by this loss.

Joshua Powell was a person of interest in the disappearance of his wife, Susan Cox Powell, in December of 2009 from West Valley City, Utah. Susan was also the mother of their two children,Braden and Charles. Because Joshua Powell was a person of interest in the disappearance of his wife, a team of investigators from the West Valley City Police Department has been sent to the State of Washington. The team of investigators will meet with Washington authorities to determine if their investigation will aid the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Susan Cox Powell.

The West Valley City Police Department will continue its investigation into the disappearance of Susan Cox Powell, who is still missing. Due to the fact that the investigation remains active, the normal and customary protocols of confidentiality will remain in effect. As such, no additional details into the investigation of Susan’s disappearance can be released at this time. The West Valley City Police Department will release pertinent information into this investigation at the appropriate time and under the proper circumstances.