The Pawtucket community is mourning a heartbreaking tragedy after three members of the same family—including a 2-year-old girl—lost their lives when their vehicle plunged into the Seekonk River on Sunday evening. The devastating incident has left family members, friends, first responders, and residents across Rhode Island grieving as investigators work to determine exactly how the fatal crash occurred.
According to Pawtucket Police, the incident happened at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, 2026, near the Taft Street boat ramp in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Witnesses reported seeing a vehicle enter the water before it quickly became completely submerged, prompting an immediate multi-agency search and rescue operation.
Search Operation Lasted Through the Night
Emergency personnel from the Pawtucket Police Department, Pawtucket Fire Department, the Rhode Island State Police Dive Team, and several neighboring agencies rushed to the scene within minutes of receiving the emergency call.
Witnesses attempted to assist before emergency crews arrived, including one individual on a jet ski who tried to reach the sinking vehicle. Despite those efforts, the car disappeared beneath the surface within moments.
Divers searched the river for several hours Sunday night before suspending operations around 1:00 a.m. Monday because of dangerous currents and extremely poor underwater visibility. Search efforts resumed early Monday morning, eventually leading to the recovery of the submerged vehicle during the afternoon.
Three Victims Recovered
Authorities confirmed that all three occupants were found inside the vehicle and were pronounced dead.
Police identified the victims as:
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A 45-year-old woman
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A 22-year-old woman
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A 2-year-old girl
Officials confirmed the three victims were members of the same family. However, their names have not yet been publicly released as authorities continue the formal identification process and ensure all next of kin have been properly notified.
Investigation Continues Into How Vehicle Entered River
Investigators are now working to determine exactly what caused the vehicle to enter the Seekonk River.
At this stage, authorities have not determined whether mechanical failure, driver error, roadway conditions, or another factor contributed to the tragedy. Police have emphasized that there is no indication of foul play, and the incident currently appears to be a tragic accident.
The vehicle entered the water from the Taft Street boat ramp, an area that investigators continue to examine while documenting evidence and reconstructing the sequence of events.
Community Mourns Devastating Loss
The deaths have deeply affected residents throughout Pawtucket and neighboring communities.
Many community members gathered near the search site Monday as emergency crews continued recovery efforts, while others expressed condolences on social media and praised the dedication of first responders who worked tirelessly under extremely difficult conditions.
The tragedy has also highlighted the dangers emergency dive teams face when operating in rivers with strong currents and limited visibility. Police officials publicly thanked every agency involved in the lengthy recovery operation.
Personal Details Still Pending
Because authorities are continuing the identification process, very little personal information about the victims has been released publicly.
Their names, dates of birth, occupations, educational backgrounds, and additional family details have not yet been disclosed. Officials are expected to release more information after the medical examiner completes formal identification and relatives have been fully notified.
Funeral Arrangements
No funeral or memorial service information has been announced.
The victims’ family is expected to release obituary and service details in the coming days.
Investigation Remains Active
Pawtucket Police continue investigating the fatal incident alongside state authorities.
Anyone who witnessed the vehicle entering the river or who may possess photographs, videos, or other information relevant to the investigation is encouraged to contact investigators.
Additional updates are expected once authorities complete the next phase of the investigation and release the identities of the victims.
As the Pawtucket community mourns this unimaginable loss, thoughts remain with the victims’ family during an incredibly difficult time. The lives of three generations of one family were lost in a tragedy that has touched countless people throughout Rhode Island, and they will be remembered with love, compassion, and heartfelt sympathy.