From The Rhode Island Coalition Against Deadly Violence (RICADV):
We are filled with grief over the devastating loss of a young child in Warwick, Rhode Island, whose life was taken yesterday by a horrific act of violence with a firearm. The child was killed by his father, who also took his own life. It is unfathomable that a preschool-aged child who had his entire life ahead of him was murdered.
Our whole hearts are with the child’s mother, family, friends, and the entire Warwick community. Any life lost to violence is horrendous, and the loss of a beloved child is beyond heartbreaking. It is essential that our community stays connected and that we are there for one another.
The presence of a gun can be the determining factor in whether or not a perpetrator’s attack becomes deadly. Access to firearms increases the possibility that other family members or bystanders will also be killed in an attack. Dangerous individuals must be disarmed, and we must do more as a state to make sure that abusers do not have access to firearms.
Family violence is a community issue that needs a community response. We are grateful to the first responders and leaders who acted swiftly and have provided support during this time. Our state, our systems, and our communities must work together and take collective action to prevent family violence.
Resources for families:
· For anyone struggling with the aftermath of this tragedy, the Elizabeth Buffum Chace Center is available for support and resources at 401-738-1700.
· Family Service of Rhode Island https://www.familyserviceri.org/about/
· BH Link – https://www.bhlink.org
For more information about resources available for survivors and how you can help, visit our website at www.ricadv.org. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please call the statewide confidential 24/7 RI Victims of Crime Helpline at 1-800-494-8100. The Helpline is also available via online chat at www.ricadv.org.
About the RICADV: The Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence (RICADV) is an organization dedicated to ending domestic violence. The RICADV was formed in 1979 to support and assist the domestic violence agencies in Rhode Island and to provide statewide leadership on the issue. The organization strives to create justice for victims and raises awareness on the issue of domestic violence in Rhode Island. The RICADV’s network of ten member agencies provides a wide array of services for victims, including emergency shelter, support groups, counseling services and assistance with the legal system. For more information about these organizations and services, call the statewide Helpline at 800-494-8100. And for more information about the RICADV, call us at 401-467-9940 or visit us online at www.ricadv.org.
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