Do you know who murdered Brian Joseph Powers in 2020? Brian Powers, age 43, was found dead on June 13, 2020, in Akron, Ohio. He was discovered near the intersection of East Buchtel Avenue and Chapel Drive, close to the University of Akron. Powers, who was known by the name "Egypt," had been shot and was found lying on the sidewalk of a church in the area at approximately 7:48 a.m. Authorities responded to the scene after receiving reports of gunshots, but initial investigations failed to yield significant leads regarding the circumstances or
motive of the homicide.
Brian Powers was a well-known figure in his community and often expressed himself with confidence, wearing distinctive colorful braids and studded sunglasses. His family, particularly his sister Vivian Powers-Smith, described him as someone proud of who he was, and who never shied away from his identity as a transgender individual. Despite the support of his family and friends, the case was initially challenging for law enforcement, and months went by without any arrests or breakthroughs.
In March 2023, authorities made a significant development in the case when they arrested Bobby Lee Bell, age 48, in connection with Powers' death. Bell was apprehended by Akron Police in collaboration with the U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force. He was charged with Powers' murder along with several related charges, including illegal possession of a firearm and handling drugs. Bell had a lengthy criminal history, including a prior conviction for attempted aggravated murder, which added to the gravity of his arrest. During the arrest, a handgun was recovered, possibly providing crucial evidence linking Bell to the crime.
The Akron Police Department, along with community members, hopes that Bell's arrest will bring some closure to the case and justice for Brian Powers and his loved ones. The investigation into the full circumstances of the homicide remains ongoing, and authorities have encouraged anyone with further information to come forward to aid in the pursuit of justice.
