A story for every victim

Roderick Deshawne Powell, 31

Roderick Deshawne Powell, a 31-year-old black man, was fatally stabbed Saturday, Dec. 6, in the 26000 block of South Western Avenue in Lomita, according to Los Angeles County coroner’s records.

About 12:30 a.m., Powell was found bleeding on the sidewalk in the Harbor Hills Housing Project. Powell had been hanging out with a group for most of the day and got into an altercation with a 28-year-old woman.

The woman said Powell charged at her and punched her, so she pulled out a small pocket knife and stabbed him, according to authorities. The woman told authorities that she was afraid for her safety.

The L.A. County district attorney's office did not file charges against the woman, citing a lack of sufficient evidence.

Powell was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1:01 a.m., according to coroner’s records.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

-- Nicole Santa Cruz

Share a memory or thought about Roderick Deshawne Powell

Before you post, here are some answers to frequently asked questions:

Remember, all posts are approved by a Times staffer. Profanity and personal attacks will not be approved.

  Required
  Required

Three reader comments