Tributes to 'selfless' detective who died at 32

Matt Burgin-Powell started as a police officer in 2018 and later specialised in safeguarding

A "selfless" detective who specialised in safeguarding has died from what is believed to be a cardiac arrest.

Acting Det Sgt Matt Burgin-Powell, 32, had served in Suffolk Police for seven years and died on Monday.

In a statement released by Suffolk Police Federation, his husband Luke said: "Matt was a selfless young man in life, and in death."

He said he had taken his "pledge to preserve life seriously" and had already saved three people by donating his organs.

A federation spokesperson said he was known for his "outstanding professionalism, along with his care for colleagues and the public".

Darren Harris, the federation chairman, added: "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 dedicated, respected and popular officer who wanted to protect the public while also being there for his 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."

'Massive loss to policing'

Acting Det Sgt Burgin-Powell started as a police officer in 2018 and the federation said he had looked after the "most vulnerable" in his safeguarding role.

Emma Arthurs-Newman, the 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."

She encouraged policing staff to be "there for one another" following the news of their colleague's death and said the federation could provide support.

Suffolk Police said Acting Det Sgt Burgin-Powell's life would be celebrated with a force funeral and the details would be shared once they were available.