News Summary
A 36-year-old woman from Providence has been charged with DUI and other offenses following a tragic three-vehicle crash on Interstate 95 that left one person dead. The accident occurred near the Atwells Avenue exit early Sunday morning. In addition to the fatality, two others were hospitalized with minor injuries. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident as the community grapples with the dangers of impaired driving.
Providence – A 36-year-old woman from Providence has been charged with multiple offenses, including driving under the influence (DUI), following a fatal three-vehicle crash on Interstate 95. The accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, around 3 a.m., near the Atwells Avenue exit.
The collision involved one vehicle that rolled over, which was subsequently struck by two other vehicles and caught fire. Tragically, the driver of the rolled-over vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet publicly identified the deceased individual. In addition to the fatality, two other individuals involved in the incident were transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Licheva Castro, the woman arrested in connection with the crash, faces serious charges stemming from the incident. Specifically, she has been charged with:
- Driving under the influence of liquor and/or drugs resulting in death (first offense)
- Driving to endanger resulting in death (first offense)
- Obstructing an officer in the execution of duty
- Driving with a suspended license (fourth offense)
- Possession of cocaine (previously released on bail for a 2024 charge)
At the time of the crash, Castro was driving someone else’s car. Following the incident, she was processed at the Lincoln Woods Barracks and was arraigned by a justice of the peace. After her arraignment, she was transported to the Adult Correctional Institutions Women’s Intake Center.
The Rhode Island State Police are currently conducting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Their inquiry seeks to determine the factors leading to the collision and any potential legal implications for those involved.
The equation of impaired driving with tragic outcomes is a harsh reality that many communities face. Incidents like this highlight the serious dangers associated with driving under the influence, which can lead to life-altering consequences for families and individuals alike.
As the investigation progresses, updates are likely to follow regarding the status of Castro and the case. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and responsible regarding their driving practices, especially in ensuring that they are not under the influence of any substances before getting behind the wheel.
This crash has served as a stark reminder of the need for safety on the roads and the devastating impact that impaired driving can have on lives. It is essential for all individuals to recognize their responsibility and make choices that protect themselves and others while traveling.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
East Providence Fire Department Adopts Non-PFAS Turnout Gear
Providence Woman Charged with DUI After Fatal Crash
Providence Police Investigate Violent Altercation
Providence Ranked Among Most Dangerous Cities for Drivers
Woman Charged with DUI and Child Endangerment After Crash
Man Assaulted with Skateboard in Providence
Fiery Two-Car Crash Leads to DUI Charges for Young Driver
Route 6 Utility Repairs and Inspections to Begin Soon
Tragic Collision on Route 1 Bypass Claims Three Lives
Providence Accidents Injure Two and Displace Fourteen Residents
Additional Resources
- TurnTo10
- Wikipedia: Driving Under the Influence
- WPRI
- Google Search: DUIs and road safety
- ABC6
- Google Scholar: Impaired Driving
- NBC Boston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- Patch
- Google News: Fatal Car Crashes

Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.