Akron man admits to killing his Lyft driver

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AKRON , Ohio (WJW) — An Akron man pleaded guilty Monday to several charges including the May 2021 murder of a Lyft driver.

According to a release from the Summit County Prosecutor’s Office, Kahlyl Powe, 26, pleaded guilty to charges of murder with a firearm specification, carrying a concealed weapon, improper handling of a firearm in a motor vehicle, possession of a deadly weapon while under detention, felonious assault and assault of a law enforcement officer.

Prosecutors say that in 2021, Powe shot and killed Kristopher Roukey, 48, who was working as a Lyft rideshare driver. Roukey picked up Powe in the area of East Market Street and East Buchten Avenue in Akron. Powe shot and killed Roukey.

Roukey was the husband of a city of Akron employee.

At the time, Lyft released the following statement:

“We are heartbroken by this incident and our hearts are with Kristopher’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. Safety is fundamental to Lyft and we are in touch with law enforcement to offer our assistance.”

Prosecutors say Powe underwent three mental health evaluations between November 2021 and July 2023. In January 2024, he was ruled competent to stand trial.

In January 2022, while in jail for the murder, Powe was charged with assaulting a sheriff’s deputy.

Powe is set to be sentenced on May 16.

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