RIVERVIEW, FL – A 61-year-old Florida man was fatally shot in what authorities describe as an “execution-style” killing following a road rage incident on Monday. The shooter, 26-year-old Kentavious Gholston, has been arrested and charged in connection with the deadly encounter.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister detailed the events as a horrifying example of senseless violence that devastated a family. Gholston faces charges of second-degree murder with a firearm, aggravated assault, and evidence tampering for the shooting that occurred just outside Tampa.

The victim, identified as Steven Powers, was traveling with his grandson along U.S. 301 around 2:15 p.m. when Gholston allegedly cut them off in a black Mazda. Authorities say Powers honked his horn, prompting Gholston to brake abruptly and bring his vehicle to a sudden stop on the road.

Sheriff Chronister likened the ensuing confrontation to a scene out of a movie. After stopping his vehicle, Gholston allegedly exited the car and approached Powers, who attempted to defend himself by throwing a punch but missed, resulting in Powers being pushed to the street.

With Powers on the ground, investigators allege Gholston pulled out a gun then shot him twice in the back. Believing Powers to be alive, Gholston allegedly fired two more rounds to ensure he was dead. The gruesome detail of the incident underscores the brutality of the attack.

Powers’ grandson exited their vehicle to assist his grandfather but was reportedly threatened by Gholston, who pointed his gun at him. Gholston then fled the scene, later abandoning his car and firearm. While the gun remains unfound, security footage suggests it was disposed of in a retention pond near a local school.

Further implicating Gholston, a debit card bearing his name was discovered at the scene. This pivotal piece of evidence quickly linked him to the crime.

Currently held without bond, Gholston appeared before a judge, where additional charges of domestic violence battery from a separate warrant were disclosed. Jail records confirm his incarceration.

Remembered as a “hard worker” and “caring man,” Powers’ family expresses their grief and shock, struggling to comprehend the motive behind the killing. His nephew, Larry Davis, and brother, Thomas Powers, voiced their pain and search for answers in the wake of the tragedy.

Sheriff Chronister condemned the senseless act, emphasizing the tragedy’s avoidable nature and the disregard for human life demonstrated by Gholston. As the investigation into the death of Steven Powers continues, the community mourns the loss of a beloved grandfather taken by unnecessary violence.