In the early hours of July 5, 2023, a large gathering in a parking lot on Dupont Drive in Providence, Rhode Island, turned deadly. Amidst a crowd of hundreds of people with numerous vehicles, where activities like drinking, listening to music, and setting off fireworks were taking place, 28-year-old Jerry Cardona was fatally shot. The Hispanic male suffered a gunshot wound to the chest at close range around 12:30 a.m.
He was quickly transported to Rhode Island Hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival. This violent act marked the seventh homicide in the city that year.
Following the shooting, chaos erupted as several individuals were seen fleeing the scene. Providence Police Deputy Chief Kevin Lanni mentioned that Cardona was known to law enforcement, though no specific details were provided. At the time, authorities announced they were seeking multiple suspects in connection with the homicide. As of the initial reports, no arrests had been made. The shooting was part of a string of violent events that occurred in Providence that night, which included other non-fatal shootings.
Born in Beverly, Massachusetts, Jerry Cardona was the son of Jacqueline Caraballo and Daem Cardona. He was a father to two children, Jeremiah and Jeraliciah Cardona. Described as someone who enjoyed writing, listening to music, and playing basketball, he was also known for his sharp sense of style. His family, including his parents, children, and siblings, mourned his loss. A visitation and funeral service were held on July 13, 2023, at the A.A. Mariani & Son Funeral Home, followed by his burial at North Burial Ground in Providence.
