Police say that a homeowner noticed an aluminum window frame was stolen from his property. He began to search the neighborhood for the thief. The homeowner met Hopkins who pointed out Powell walking down Falls Street. The two men approached him.

The homeowner and Powell began to fight and police say Powell pulled out a knife.
Hopkins grabbed Powell in an attempt to break up the fight. According to police, Powell stabbed Hopkins in the neck during the struggle.

A friend drove Hopkins to the hospital where he later died.
Powell was taken into custody a short time later without incident.