PROVIDENCE, R.I. – The Providence Police Department is investigating a fatal assault that occurred Monday evening on Manton Avenue, leading to the death of 51-year-old Romy Alfonso. In a deeply unsettling turn, police have arrested and charged four juveniles—three 12-year-olds and one 11-year-old—in connection with the attack.
The incident began around 7:30 p.m. on January 26, when officers responded to reports of an assault. Upon arrival, they found Alfonso critically injured. He was transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. His death was officially confirmed by Providence Police Colonel Oscar Perez on Friday.
Arrests Made, Disturbing Details Emerge
Police investigators state that witnesses described a harrowing scene: Alfonso was allegedly attacked by a group of juveniles, knocked to the ground, and repeatedly struck. The investigation led to the swift apprehension of the suspects.
According to police, three of the juveniles were initially detained in connection with a separate disturbance on the same day before being linked to the fatal assault. All four have since been charged with felony assault and conspiracy and are currently being held at the Rhode Island Training School.
A Community Shaken and Seeking Answers
The brutality of the attack, compounded by the extremely young ages of the accused, has sent shockwaves through the Manton Avenue neighborhood and the wider Providence community. Residents are grappling with disbelief and grief over the loss of a neighbor.
“This is an absolute tragedy that has left our community heartbroken and searching for answers,” said a city council member representing the area. “A man has lost his life, and now several young children are facing extremely serious charges. It forces us to confront very difficult questions about violence, intervention, and the support systems for our youth.”
The case has ignited urgent conversations about juvenile crime, accountability, and the societal factors that can lead to such violence at a tender age.
Ongoing Investigation and Mourning
Providence police have indicated the investigation remains active and that additional information is expected to be released. As the legal process begins for the accused juveniles, the primary focus for many remains on mourning Romy Alfonso, a man remembered not as a statistic, but as a member of the community whose life was tragically cut short.
Vigils are being planned to honor his memory and call for peace. The tragedy serves as a stark, sobering reminder of how quickly violence can irrevocably alter the trajectories of multiple lives.