Steven Funk Obituary, Death – A man fatally shot by a Knoxville Police Department officer during a domestic disturbance has been identified. Authorities confirmed that 47-year-old Steven Funk, a resident of Knoxville, was the individual killed in the incident that unfolded late on the night of August 21.
The Knoxville Police Department reported that officers were dispatched to the 300 block of Roche Street shortly after 11 p.m. following a call about a possible domestic disturbance. Upon arriving, officers encountered Funk, who was allegedly assaulting a woman at the scene. According to police, the situation escalated quickly, leading to an officer discharging his firearm and striking Funk.
Emergency medical personnel were immediately called, and Funk was transported to a hospital in Des Moines. Despite efforts to save him, he later succumbed to his injuries. The Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) confirmed his identity on Tuesday.
The woman who police said was assaulted by Funk was also taken to a hospital. Thankfully, her injuries were not life-threatening, and she was released after receiving medical treatment. Authorities have not provided further details about the nature of the assault but confirmed that she is now safe.
As is standard procedure in officer-involved shootings, the officers who responded to the call have been placed on critical incident leave while the case undergoes a full review. The Knoxville Police Department has not released the names of the officers involved, pending the outcome of the investigation and internal review.
The Iowa DCI has assumed responsibility for investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Their inquiry will focus on examining whether proper procedures were followed and determining the events that led to the officer’s decision to use deadly force. Investigators are also expected to review body camera footage, interview witnesses, and gather forensic evidence to ensure transparency in the case.
The shooting has brought heightened attention to the challenges law enforcement officers face when responding to domestic violence calls. Such incidents are often unpredictable and dangerous, as officers may encounter volatile emotions and rapidly escalating violence. Officials emphasize that these situations frequently require split-second decisions in order to protect victims, officers, and bystanders.
While the investigation continues, the Knoxville community is left grappling with the tragic outcome. The death of Funk has drawn concern, particularly as it underscores both the risks of domestic disputes and the severe consequences when such conflicts spiral out of control. Authorities have not yet commented on whether criminal charges could arise from the assault allegations or the shooting itself, noting that findings will be released once the investigation is complete.
For now, the Iowa DCI remains focused on piecing together the chain of events. Until then, Knoxville officials are urging the public to be patient as investigators work to provide a clear account of the circumstances that led to Funk’s death.
This incident adds to the ongoing conversation about policing, use of force, and community safety, especially in cases where domestic violence is involved.
