Western District
Fatal Crash - Laurel
24-715252
On April 29, 2024, at approximately 8:30 p.m., officers responded to a multi-vehicle crash in the 3300 block of Laurel Fort Meade Road (Route 198) in Laurel. The investigation would reveal that a 2023 Honda Passport was exiting a commercial parking lot crossing the eastbound lanes of Laurel Fort Meade Road to access westbound Laurel Fort Meade Road. At the same time, a 2016 BMW R Nine motorcycle was traveling eastbound on Laurel Fort Meade Road. As the Honda crossed the eastbound travel lanes, it pulled directly into the path of the motorcycle causing the motorcycle to strike the Honda. The motorcycle operator was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Anne Arundel County Fire Department and was later transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, where an autopsy will be conducted. The Traffic Safety Section is investigating this crash.
Vehicle: 2023 Honda Passport
49-year-old male
Laurel, Maryland
Non-life-threatening injuries
Vehicle: 2016 BMW R Nine T
Driver: Marcelo Luis Aguilar
44-year-old male
Laurel, Maryland
Fatal injuries
Criminal Investigation Division
Child Abuse Unit
Child Sex Abuse - Annapolis
24-703775
Detectives assigned to the Anne Arundel County Police Child Abuse Unit along with the Fugitive Apprehension Team arrested 47-year-old Donald Joseph Powell of Davidsonville, charging him with Sex Abuse of a Minor, 4th Degree Sex Offense-Position/Person of Authority, and Second-Degree Assault. In December 2023, certain behaviors exhibited by Powell were brought to the attention of investigators. These behaviors consisted of Powell attempting to engage in inappropriate relationships with minor high-school-age girls.
Powell, who was not employed by the Anne Arundel County Public School System, attended softball practice at Annapolis Senior High School in an apparent attempt to obtain a position as a coach for the team. He spent two days with the team at practice until one of the players reported his behavior to Anne Arundel County Public Schools. It is not believed that the behaviors occurred at the school practices. However, Powell was barred from attending school-related events at that time, and an investigation ensued.
Investigators met with high school-age females allegedly targeted by Powell, who was also known as “DJ.” A high-school-aged female reported she met Powell through South River Youth Athletics, where Powell volunteered as a softball coach. Powell pursued her, showing up at her home and the home of one of her friends when she was there. During one encounter, Powell allegedly sexually assaulted the female.
Child Abuse Unit detectives conducted witness interviews and analyzed evidence obtained through the course of the investigation. After consultation with the Office of the State’s Attorney, detectives applied for and received criminal charges against Powell, who was arrested on April 26, 2024.
Due to the patterns of behavior exhibited by Donald Powell, investigators believe there may be other young women whom he may have targeted and victimized. We ask that parents speak with their children and that anyone with any information regarding Donald Powell or “DJ” please contact investigators at 410-222-4733. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are encouraged to call the Anne Arundel County Police Tip Line at 410-222-4700.
