A woman was killed inside a business in Central Falls, Rhode Island, on Thursday, and police have announced an arrest in the case.
Central Falls Police said they were investigating the woman’s death at Sue’s Salon on Hunt Street as a homicide after they responded to the salon to find the victim unresponsive inside.
She was later pronounced dead, and has since been identified as 50-year-old Putali Kunwar.
The Central Falls Police Department did not say how the woman is believed to have been killed, saying only that she was found dead as a result of an apparent act of violence.
“This has been a heartbreaking 24 hours for Central Falls. A woman lost her life, and we are holding her family, loves ones, and the entire Sue’s Salon community — a small business so many in our city know and care about — in our hearts,” Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera said in a statement. “Violence has no place here. We will continue doing everything we can to keep our community safe.”
“Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family,” Col. Anthony Roberson added. “While no action can undo their loss, we remain committed to pursuing justice on their behalf.”
Police announced they had arrested a suspect on Friday following an extensive investigation that included officers canvassing the surrounding area for surveillance footage.
According to police, detectives were able to identify a suspect as well as a vehicle that was used to arrive at and flee the scene. Using recently-deployed Flock camera technology, investigators were then able to identify a license plate associated with that vehicle. Cumberland police helped Central Falls police track the vehicle and positively identify the driver.
The suspect, identified as 66-year-old Lawrence Beauvais, was found at a motel in North Attleboro, police say. He was taken into custody without incident with help from North Attleboro police. Officials haven’t said if or how the two were known to each other.
Beauvais will be extradited back to Rhode Island, where he’ll face charges of first degree murder and first degree robbery, according to police.
“This arrest is the result of the relentless efforts of our detectives and patrol officers, who worked tirelessly with determination and professionalism,” Roberson said. “We thank the community for coming forward with critical information and recognize the vital support of our law enforcement partners, including the Cumberland Police Department and the North Attleboro Police Department. This case reflects our unwavering commitment to public safety and the strength of collaborative partnerships.”
“I want to thank the Central Falls Police Department for their impressive work, our city’s emergency responders, and our state and regional law enforcement partners. Because of their coordination, a suspect was quickly identified, tracked, and taken into custody,” the mayor added. “I’m also grateful to our neighbors who stepped forward to help, and for the camera technology that played an important role in this investigation.”
The case remains under investigation. Anyone with additional information related to this incident is asked to call Central Falls Police at 401-727-7411.
Source: News – Boston – necn
