Providence Man Sentenced to Life for Double Murder

Providence – Kevin Maldonado, a 32-year-old resident of Providence, has been sentenced to four consecutive life sentences for the double murder of two men in June 2021. Attorney General Peter Neronha announced the verdict, which underscores the gravity of Maldonado’s actions, marking a significant response to gun violence in the community.

Maldonado was convicted on January 29, 2024, on various charges, including two counts of murder, three counts of discharging a firearm while committing a crime of violence, and one count of assault with a dangerous weapon. In addition to the life sentences, he received a concurrent 16-year prison term.

The shooting that led to these convictions occurred on June 20, 2021, near the intersection of Cheshire and Salina Streets in Providence. The victims, 24-year-old Abdoulaye Diallo from Woonsocket and 29-year-old Abass Mbaye originally from Senegal, suffered gunshot wounds and were later pronounced dead at Rhode Island Hospital after being transported there.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that both victims had been attending a party where Maldonado was present. They were reportedly asked to leave the event for sneaking in without paying. Following their eviction from the party, a physical altercation between Maldonado and the victims ensued, during which Maldonado opened fire, shooting both Diallo and Mbaye, and also aimed at a third man.

Maldonado’s identification was aided by video surveillance footage captured from four different sources. Witnesses reported seeing him in possession of a firearm near the scene of the shooting, and cell phone location data corroborated his presence at the location during the time of the incident.

During the sentencing, Attorney General Neronha expressed condolences to the families of the victims and emphasized the serious nature of Maldonado’s crimes. He indicated that Maldonado’s choice to resort to gun violence over what was described as a “meaningless dispute” not only took the lives of two individuals but also deeply affected their families and the broader community.

The Rhode Island Attorney General’s office acknowledged the dedication of the Providence Police Department for their thorough investigation and prosecution of this case. Their contributions were crucial in securing justice for the victims and ensuring that Maldonado was held accountable for his violent actions.

The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding gun violence in urban areas and the tragic outcomes that can arise from conflicts. As communities continue to address these issues, the legal consequences for such violent acts serve as a reminder of the seriousness of handling disputes peacefully and lawfully.