Smiley Comments on Prov Violence After 18-Year-Old Killed, 7 & 20-Year-Old Shot

Smiley Comments on Prov Violence After 18-Year-Old Killed, 7 & 20-Year-Old Shot

After repeatedly refusing to comment on a string of shootings in the city in five days, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley has issued a statement on the recent gun violence, saying he is "heartbroken."

On Sunday, an 18-year-old was shot in his own driveway on his birthday.

On Thursday, a 20-year-old was shot off of Broad Street. 

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And less than four hours later, a seven-year-old girl was shot and is in critical condition at Hasbro Children’s Hospital.

GoLocal repeatedly asked the mayor’s office for comments, and on Friday, Smiley issued the following statement: 

"I am heartbroken over the incidents that occurred in our community last night. We need to stop the cycle of violence in our community while we also remove illegal guns from our streets," said Smiley.

I am thankful to the Providence Police for their quick response and continued commitment to protecting our community," he continued. "Detectives are actively investigating both of these incidents and we will do everything possible to bring those accountable to justice."

Smiley did not address the homicide on Sunday. 

GoLocal has learned that Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez is currently on vacation.