On June 26, 2020, 30-year-old Derek Desjardin, a White/Caucasian male, tragically lost his life in his Woonsocket, Rhode Island apartment. His family, concerned after he failed to show up for his job as a crew foreman for a landscaping company, went to his residence on Cass Avenue to check on him. There, they made the devastating discovery of his body.
Woonsocket Police responded to the scene at approximately 8:15 AM and determined that Desjardin was the victim of a homicide, having sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
The investigation into Desjardin's death quickly focused on his 26-year-old roommate, Paul R. Raposo. About two hours after Desjardin's body was found, police located Raposo at River Island Park in Woonsocket and took him into custody without incident. At the time of his arrest, Raposo was in possession of a loaded 9mm pistol. He was subsequently charged with domestic murder, discharge of a firearm when committing a crime of violence resulting in death, and other related firearm offenses.
Desjardin was remembered as a loving father, son, and grandson, as well as a champion bowler and a dedicated landscaper. His death occurred just three days after the passing of his mother. He was known for his infectious smile and his willingness to always help others, cherishing time spent with family and friends. The senseless act of violence cut short the life of a man described as having a sweet soul and a non-confrontational personality, leaving a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him.
