02/17/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18GQnbftTy/
Yesterday afternoon, an act of domestic violence took the lives of two members of our community and left others injured at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket.
We are heartbroken. We are devastated. And yes, we are angry.
Angry because domestic violence shatters families across Rhode Island each and every day.
Angry because this tragedy will continue to cause suffering for days and weeks and years to come. For the families of the victims, for their coworkers and friends, and for those in the stands whose lives were irrevocably changed by what they witnessed.
Angry because youth sporting events should not be associated with terror and fear.
Angry because everyone deserves to feel safe at home and yet many of our neighbors live in fear that their loved ones will hurt them.
“This tragedy is a painful reminder that domestic violence can escalate quickly and unpredictably,” said Vanessa Volz, Sojourner House’s President and CEO. “When violence reaches public spaces, it shakes a community’s sense of safety. But even when it remains behind closed doors, it is no less dangerous. We must remain committed to prevention, early intervention, and ensuring that survivors have resources and know they are not alone.”
We urge our community to respond not only with sorrow, but with a renewed commitment to building a safer Rhode Island. If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse—whether physical, emotional, financial, or coercive—help is available. You are not alone.
Here are a few resources you can access:
💜Family Service of RI
Our friends at FSRI are providing support and counseling to children and adults struggling with fear and emotional distress during this painful moment.
💜988 Su***de and Crisis Hotline
If you or someone you know is experiencing acute distress or grief, call 988 to be connected with immediate counseling. This hotline is a source of support available 24/7 to people in crisis, including people experiencing challenging reactions to disasters.
💜Sojourner House
If you are a victim of domestic violence and this tragedy has left you shaken or scared, please call our 24/7 helpline at 401-765-3232 or visit our Drop-In Center at 1570 Westminster St. in Providence. Our advocates are here to help.
