A tragic domestic violence incident has rocked the Long Beach community after a 5-year-old girl was fatally shot by her father, who then turned the gun on himself, in what police are calling a murder-suicide. The Long Beach Police Department is deep into an investigation of the events that unfolded on December 28, 2023, in the 3400 block of Adriatic Avenue.
Officers were first alerted to the situation after a woman reported domestic violence at the West Patrol Substation, the Long Beach Police Department confirmed. Responding to the call around 3:01 p.m., officers arrived at the residence only to be greeted by smoke and what may have been the sound of gunfire emanating from the house. While the fire and rescue were called, officers made the grim discovery of a young girl with a fatal gunshot wound, pronounced dead at the scene.
The situation escalated when it was believed that Chase Phillip Powell, the 39-year-old father and suspect, was still in the burning building. The Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team attempts to reach Powell through negotiations, though it all ends in vain as they eventually find him lifeless within the residence along with two firearms near his position.
"We are all devastated by the murder of a 5-year old child. This is a heartbreaking act of domestic violence that should not have happened," Chief Wally Hebeish stated.
As the investigation continues, the Long Beach Police Department encourages anyone with information to get in touch with Homicide Detectives Eric Thai and Alfredo Chairez at (562) 570-7244. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through "LA Crime Stoppers" by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the "P3 Tips" app, or visiting their website.
