William L. Howell II, a 21-year-old male from Akron, OH, tragically lost his life on May 18, 2021. Howell was fatally shot on a Metro bus at the Akron Metro RTA Transit Center on South Broadway. The incident occurred around 5 p.m., following an argument that broke out on the bus. Witnesses reported that Howell was shot multiple times by Kavon Jackson, a 17-year-old male at the time, who used a handgun during the altercation.
Howell succumbed to his injuries about two hours later at a local hospital.
The Akron police quickly responded to the scene and arrested both Jackson and another teen who was present during the incident. However, only Jackson was charged with aggravated murder, carrying a concealed weapon, obstructing official business, and misconduct at a public transportation system. The other teen was released without charges. Jackson was later bound over from Summit County Juvenile Court to be tried as an adult.
In November 2022, Jackson, now 18 years old, pleaded guilty to murder with a gun specification, which carries additional prison time. As part of a plea deal, several charges against him were dismissed, and he avoided the possibility of spending the rest of his life in prison if convicted of aggravated murder. Jackson now faces life in prison with the possibility of parole after 18 years.
The shooting was captured on high-quality surveillance footage, which included audio, providing substantial evidence for the case. Jackson's attorneys initially requested the dismissal of several charges based on a recent Ohio Supreme Court decision regarding juveniles tried as adults. However, the court dismissed only some of the charges, leaving Jackson to face the serious charges of aggravated murder and felonious assault.
Howell's death was ruled a homicide by the Summit County Medical Examiner's Office, and his family and friends continue to mourn his loss. The Akron Metro RTA Transit Center has since increased its law enforcement presence and security measures to ensure the safety of passengers.
This tragic incident highlights the devastating consequences of violence and the importance of maintaining safety in public spaces. The legal proceedings against Jackson serve as a reminder of the justice system's role in addressing such acts and providing closure for the victims' families.
