Providence Police Officer Assaulted while Responding to Shots Fired Call

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — In the early hours of Saturday morning, a Providence police officer was assaulted while responding to a call regarding shots fired in the area. The incident took place at 147 Ocean St., according to Major David Lapatin with the Providence Police Department.

At approximately 1:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of five gunshots being fired. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered multiple spent shell casings in the vicinity and initiated a search of the residence in order to ensure the safety and well-being of any potential gunshot victims.

While attempting to communicate with tenants on the first floor, officers encountered the landlord who cooperated with them in conducting welfare checks on the remaining residents in the building. Unfortunately, officers were unable to establish contact with anyone residing on the first floor. However, when they reached the second floor apartment, they were met with confrontational individuals.

Henry Paredes, a 23-year-old male, answered the door and refused to comply with the officers’ instructions. Inside the apartment, two more men, identified as Adrian Paredes (21 years old) and Angel Paredes (20 years old), obstructed the officers from conducting a thorough search.

An altercation ensued when Angel Paredes allegedly shoved one of the officers, engaging in physical struggle. Adrian Paredes also became involved and reportedly punched an officer in the head while they were attempting to handcuff him. Subsequently, all three men were placed under arrest.

While the officers were escorting Henry, Adrian, and Angel to police cruisers outside, Jhanna Ramos, a woman associated with the incident, demanded entry to the residence, citing the presence of her child inside. Despite being informed that the investigation was ongoing and entry was prohibited, Ramos attempted to push past the officers, resulting in her arrest. She further resisted complying with the officers’ instructions and began shouting and swearing, apparently attempting to incite bystanders at the scene.

Following the investigation, no gunshot victims were found within the premises. However, five spent shell casings were discovered outside the home. According to the police, the shots were fired from a black Audi with tinted windows.

Henry Paredes was charged with obstructing an officer and resisting arrest. Adrian Paredes faces charges of obstructing an officer, resisting arrest, and simple assault. Angel Paredes is charged with obstructing an officer and resisting arrest. Jhanna Ramos has been charged with obstructing an officer, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct.

The investigation into the shots-fired incident remains ongoing, as authorities work to gather further evidence and identify potential suspects.