News Summary
Two suspects were arrested following an armed carjacking incident on Atwells Avenue during a marijuana transaction arranged via Instagram. The victim was assaulted and his vehicle was stolen. Police later located the vehicle and apprehended the suspects, who now face serious charges including first-degree robbery.
Providence – Two individuals are in custody following an armed carjacking incident that took place on Atwells Avenue on Monday afternoon. The carjacking reportedly stemmed from a marijuana transaction arranged through Instagram between the victim and one of the suspects.
The incident occurred around 3:15 p.m. when the victim met the suspect, identified as 19-year-old Niyeem Lee, to sell a quarter pound of marijuana. During the meeting, Lee approached the victim’s vehicle, displayed a firearm, and demanded “everything.” Another vehicle, a silver SUV, then blocked the victim’s car, and two men exited the SUV to assault the victim.
The victim was struck in the head by one of the assailants, later identified as 20-year-old Kendall Towns, using a firearm. He suffered a cut to his head and received treatment at the scene from responding authorities. After the attack, both suspects fled in the victim’s vehicle.
Police later located the stolen vehicle on East Street and processed it for evidence related to the crime. Following the incident, Lee and Towns were apprehended shortly thereafter during a police lineup at headquarters. Both suspects are now facing serious charges, including first-degree robbery, felony assault with a dangerous weapon, and conspiracy.
The police department, led by Chief Oscar Perez, confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing. However, the initial release of the suspects’ names coincided with their arrests and the formal charges against them.
Details of the Incident
The carjacking was reported to have taken place in a public area, drawing attention to the dangers of such planned transactions via social media platforms like Instagram. The victim, who was apparently unaware of the potential risks, had arranged the meeting for a drug sale, a common practice that can expose individuals to various dangers, including theft and assault.
Legal Proceedings
As they await their trial, both Lee and Towns are expected to face prosecution for their involvement in this alarming incident. The gravity of charges like first-degree robbery and felony assault reflects the severe nature of the crime and the legal system’s emphasis on ensuring that violent acts are dealt with appropriately.
Context of Armed Carjackings
Armed carjackings have become an increasing concern in urban areas, prompting law enforcement agencies across the nation to intensify their efforts to combat such crimes. These incidents often involve individuals being targeted during what they perceive to be harmless transactions, illustrating the need for greater awareness about safety when engaging in sales or exchanges in public spaces.
The police department emphasizes the importance of public safety and encourages individuals to take precautions when meeting strangers for any transaction. This particular case serves as a cautionary tale, reinforcing the risks associated with online deals.
The community is urged to report any suspicious activities to local authorities and remain vigilant, especially when conducting transactions that may involve drugs or other illegal items. The recovery of the victim’s car and the swift action taken by officers ensured that suspects were apprehended and the investigation continued.
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Additional Resources
- ABC 6 News
- Turn to 10 News
- GoLocalProv
- WPRI News
- ABC 6 News
- Wikipedia: Carjacking
- Google Search: Armed Carjackings
- Google Scholar: Armed Carjacking
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Carjacking
- Google News: Armed Carjacking
