Woman Fatally Shot in Pawtucket, Rhode Island in Possible Domestic Incident

A tragic incident unfolded on Friday night in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, as a 33-year-old woman was shot to death in what authorities believe to be a domestic incident. Pawtucket police have charged a 34-year-old man, Michael J. Fernandes, with the fatal shooting of Jocelyn A. DoCouto, who hailed from Central Falls.

The Pawtucket police received reports of gunshots around 8 p.m. on Friday, prompting them to rush to 430 Central Avenue. Upon arrival, they discovered the lifeless body of DoCouto, who had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene.

During their investigation, a WJAR photographer discovered at least four bullet casings on the ground outside a beauty salon located at 440 Central Avenue. According to officials, DoCouto may have been leaving work at the intersection of Central and Kenyon Ave. when she was shot. Witnesses reported seeing a grey SUV fleeing the area, and police are treating it as a potential lead.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), visiting www.thehotline.org or texting LOVEIS to 22522.

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Authorities suspect that the fatal shooting was related to a domestic dispute and have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat. On Friday, they announced that they had a person of interest in custody. It has since been revealed that Michael J. Fernandes is facing several charges, including domestic murder, discharge of a firearm resulting in death, carrying a pistol without a license, large capacity feeding device prohibited, and domestic violation of a no-contact order. Fernandes is set to appear in Providence District Court for his arraignment on Monday at 9 a.m.

The local community is in shock and disbelief over the tragic incident. Friends and family of DoCouto have gathered outside the Jae Slayed x Beat By Maggs Studio in Pawtucket, leaving flowers, candles, and balloons in remembrance of the victim. DoCouto, a mother of two, was the owner of the hair braiding salon and was likely finishing up work when she was fatally shot.

One friend, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed their grief, stating, “It’s unreal. I woke up to a nightmare. She was an ambassador to Black culture, Black hair, Black excellence, and she was a powerhouse.” Friends also praised DoCouto for her contributions to the community, mentioning that she paved the way for others to open small businesses and mentored youth in the area.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), visiting www.thehotline.org or texting LOVEIS to 22522.

Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien took to social media to express his condolences and mourn the loss of DoCouto, describing her as a “young mother, entrepreneur, and beloved friend to many.” He also highlighted the unfortunate prevalence of gun violence and domestic violence across the nation. Mayor Grebien reaffirmed the city’s commitment to enhancing education, awareness, and support to prevent harm and domestic violence within the community. He shared resources available to those affected by domestic violence, including the Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center and the Nonviolence Institute.

This tragic incident marks Pawtucket’s first homicide of the year. Authorities will continue their investigation to bring justice to Jocelyn A. DoCouto and her grieving loved ones.