 Let the police handle this. He owns the police. His publicist says screenwriter Robert Towne died in Los Angeles. He also wrote the screenplays for Shampoo and The Last Detail. Robert Towne was 89. I'm Richard Cantu, ABC News. Cue the fireworks and celebrate Independence Day with the Omaha Steaks 4th of July sale. Save 50% off side-wide and fire up the perfect backyard cookout with tender steaks, juicy burgers, deli-style franks, and more family favorites.