On what should have been a joyous celebration of his 18th birthday, Darmani Fabian Balbuena Mesquin, a young Black man, was tragically killed. The incident occurred on August 25, 2024, outside of his home on Rhodes Street in Providence, Rhode Island, during a gathering to mark this milestone. He was found with a single gunshot wound to his chest and was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
His death marked the city's sixth homicide of the year.
Those who knew the 18-year-old male described him as a kind-hearted individual with a radiant smile who was always willing to lend a hand to others. His sudden and violent death left his family and the community devastated. He is survived by his mother, Darisa, his brother, Darling, and his sister, Darielis, as well as other extended family members. The loss has prompted calls within the community for greater efforts to address violence and support local youth. Some street sources have suggested that the shooting may have been related to online videos and a livestream in which he allegedly taunted rival gang members.
In the weeks following the fatal shooting, the Providence Police Department conducted an extensive investigation into the homicide. On October 16, 2024, authorities announced the arrests of three suspects in connection with the murder. Jalen Santiago, 18, Julien Santiago, 20, and Jose Diaz, 19, all from the neighboring city of Pawtucket, were taken into custody. Each of the three men was charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy. During their arraignment, they were ordered to be held without bail. A Providence County Grand Jury later indicted all three men on first-degree murder charges.
