Police have released the identity of a woman who died after being struck by a vehicle in Cranston early Sunday morning, as investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the incident. Officials said the victim was 56-year-old Vaune Vacarro. According to authorities, she was on Scituate Avenue at the time of the crash and was in the roadway’s breakdown lane when she was hit by a passing vehicle. Emergency responders arrived shortly after the incident was reported, but Vacarro was pronounced dead at the scene despite attempts to help her.
Following the crash, police arrested a 30-year-old man in connection with the case. Investigators allege that the driver did not stop at the scene after the collision and did not contact emergency services to report what had happened. Charges have been filed as the legal process moves forward, and the case remains under active investigation.
Police also shared limited background information provided by Vacarro’s relatives. Family members told officers that they had not been in contact with her for several years. They described her as someone who moved frequently and had lived in several different states over time, including Florida, California, Colorado, New York, Virginia, and Massachusetts. Because of the long period without contact, no missing persons report had been filed before the crash occurred.
The incident came to police attention after a passerby noticed Vacarro and alerted authorities in the early morning hours. Officers responded to the area shortly after receiving the call. Investigators are now working to understand why she was in that location at that time of day. As part of their efforts, police are checking nearby areas and speaking with people who may have information about her movements prior to the incident.
Authorities have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that many questions remain unanswered. They are reviewing available evidence and gathering additional details to better understand the sequence of events leading up to the crash. Police have not released further information about the driver or the vehicle involved beyond what has already been shared.
In keeping with standard procedure, officials are asking members of the public to assist if they can. Anyone who knew Vacarro or who may have seen or heard something relevant around the time of the incident is encouraged to reach out to local law enforcement. Tips can be shared directly with police, and anonymous information is also welcome.
Police noted that community assistance can play an important role in cases like this, especially when investigators are trying to piece together a person’s recent history and movements. As the investigation continues, authorities say they will provide updates if additional information becomes available.
