PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — The Providence Police Department has arrested the man believed to be responsible for a shooting at a memorial vigil earlier this week. Lindsay Lague, a spokesperson for the department, confirmed that Gary Maddox III, 18, was taken into custody on Friday night. Maddox is now facing several firearms offenses in connection with the incident.
The shooting took place on Monday evening at the corner of Julian and Amherst streets during a memorial vigil. According to police, Maddox opened fire, injuring a teenager and a woman. Fortunately, their injuries were not life-threatening, and they are expected to recover fully.
The memorial vigil was meant to honor the memory of a deceased community member, drawing friends, family, and neighbors together for a solemn gathering. The tranquility of the event was shattered when shots rang out, sending attendees into a panic and prompting immediate police response.
Lague provided details on the swift actions taken by the Providence Police Department. “Our officers responded quickly to the scene, securing the area and providing assistance to the victims,” she stated. “Through diligent investigative work, we were able to identify Gary Maddox III as the suspect and bring him into custody without further incident.”
The incident on Julian Street has left the community shaken, as residents grapple with the violence that interrupted a moment of collective mourning. Local leaders and community activists have expressed their outrage and sorrow over the incident, calling for increased efforts to curb gun violence and ensure the safety of public gatherings.
In the days following the shooting, police intensified their investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Their efforts paid off when they located and arrested Maddox, bringing a sense of relief to the community. “This arrest is a testament to the dedication of our officers and the cooperation of the community,” said Lague. “We are committed to bringing justice to the victims and restoring peace to our neighborhoods.”
As the investigation continues, the Providence Police Department is urging anyone with additional information about the shooting to come forward. They have set up a tip line to facilitate anonymous tips and encourage community members to assist in the ongoing efforts to combat violence.
The victims of the shooting, whose names have not been released, are receiving support from family and friends as they recover. The teenager and the woman injured in the attack are reportedly in stable condition and have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of concern and support from the community.
Community leaders have scheduled a meeting to discuss the incident and address the broader issue of gun violence in Providence. They are calling for increased community engagement, more resources for violence prevention programs, and stronger collaboration between law enforcement and residents. “This tragic event underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to prevent gun violence and ensure the safety of all our citizens,” said one local activist.
In the wake of the shooting, the Providence Police Department has increased patrols in the area and is working closely with community organizations to provide support and resources to those affected. The department is also reviewing its protocols for responding to and preventing similar incidents in the future.
Gary Maddox III faces several firearms charges, including illegal possession of a firearm and discharging a firearm within city limits. His arraignment is scheduled for early next week, and he remains in custody at the Providence County Jail.
The shooting at the vigil has highlighted the persistent issue of gun violence in Providence and the need for continued efforts to address it. As the community mourns the disruption of a peaceful gathering, they also come together in resilience and determination to create a safer environment for all.
The Providence Police Department’s swift action in apprehending the suspect is a step towards justice for the victims and a message to the community that such acts of violence will not go unchecked. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains hopeful for healing and positive change.
The shooting at the Providence vigil serves as a stark reminder of the challenges communities face in combating gun violence. However, it also showcases the strength and solidarity of the Providence community in the face of adversity. With ongoing efforts from law enforcement and community members alike, there is a collective resolve to prevent future tragedies and promote a culture of peace and safety
