CRANSTON RHODE ISLAND, A 35-year-old man killed in a shooting Thursday night is being remembered by loved ones as a devoted father and hardworking member of the community.
According to Cranston Police, officers responded around 8:34 p.m. to Legion Way for reports of a man who had been shot. Upon arrival, officers found an adult male inside a residence suffering from multiple gunshot wounds while family members attempted to provide aid.
Cranston Fire Department personnel transported the victim to Rhode Island Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:09 pm.
Authorities identified the victim as Javon Lawson of Cranston.
Preliminary findings indicate that individuals inside the home heard banging at a side door. When Lawson approached, gunfire was discharged from outside the residence, striking him. Investigators recovered shell casings both inside and outside the side entrance.
Police said the suspect, identified as 28-year-old Demitri Sousa of Seekonk, was later involved in a separate double-fatal highway crash in Swansea following the shooting.
Through witness interviews and further investigation, authorities developed Sousa as the primary suspect. Investigators stated there had been a prior dispute between the suspect and Lawson involving a mutual acquaintance.
Family members and friends described Lawson as someone who had turned his life around after previously serving a prison sentence. They said he had remained focused on his family and avoided further trouble.
Loved ones also described him as a dedicated father who was raising his son and helping care for two other children following the passing of their mother. He was remembered as a positive presence in the community and a supportive friend and role model.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
Sousa remains in custody at a local hospital as the investigation continues.
