Kimberly Pieranuzi, Donald Roderick Jr. Obituary, Death – Authorities in Woonsocket have released the identities of three individuals who lost their lives following a tragic incident that took place Monday evening. According to the Woonsocket Police Department, officers were dispatched to an apartment located at 411 Rathbun Street around 6:45 p.m. after receiving reports of possible gunfire. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered three individuals who had sustained serious injuries. Despite efforts from first responders, all three were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Officials later identified the victims as 40-year-old Kimberly Pieranunzi, 45-year-old Donald Roderick Jr., and 24-year-old Sean Rivera, all residents of Woonsocket. Early investigations revealed that Pieranunzi lived at the apartment with her partner, Roderick, her 19-year-old daughter, and the daughter’s boyfriend, Rivera.
Detectives said that, prior to the incident, Rivera and the 19-year-old were reportedly discussing challenges in their relationship. During the conversation, the situation escalated, and Rivera allegedly acted aggressively, threatening the young woman. Authorities stated that she managed to escape the confrontation and sought refuge in her mother’s room.
Police reports indicate that Rivera followed her there, where a violent altercation occurred. The 19-year-old was then able to flee the apartment and run to safety. Shortly after, investigators believe Rivera confronted Roderick, who had just returned home from work, leading to another violent exchange.
When officers entered the apartment, they found all three victims—Pieranunzi, Roderick, and Rivera—fatally injured. Authorities have confirmed that Rivera was responsible for the tragic events before turning the weapon on himself. The young woman managed to call 911 from a nearby business after escaping.
The firearm used in the incident was recovered at the scene. A subsequent check revealed that the weapon had previously been reported stolen from the state of Maine. Investigators are continuing to trace how the gun ended up in Rivera’s possession.
In a statement released by the Woonsocket Police Department, officials emphasized that the event was an isolated domestic situation and that there was no ongoing danger to the public. “This tragic incident was specific to those residing within the apartment, and at no point was there a broader threat to community safety,” the statement read.
Woonsocket Police Chief Thomas Oates expressed condolences to the families affected, noting that the department’s victim services unit is working closely with loved ones and community partners to provide counseling and emotional support. “This is a deeply saddening event for everyone involved,” Oates said. “Our thoughts are with the victims’ families as they cope with this tremendous loss.”
The investigation remains active as detectives continue gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing the sequence of events leading up to the tragedy. Police have not released additional details regarding the young woman’s condition but confirmed she is receiving support and medical care.
Local residents expressed shock over the incident, describing the victims as quiet and friendly members of the neighborhood. Flowers and candles were placed outside the apartment building on Tuesday morning as community members gathered to honor those who lost their lives.
Authorities said they will share further information once the investigation concludes and the final reports from the medical examiner and the state crime lab are completed.
The Woonsocket Police Department is asking anyone who may have seen or heard anything unusual in the area that evening to come forward. They can contact the detective division directly or provide anonymous information through the department’s confidential tip line.
While the details of the tragedy continue to unfold, officials urged the public to be mindful of signs of domestic tension and to reach out for help if they or someone they know may be in danger. Local organizations and crisis hotlines remain available to provide confidential assistance to individuals in need of support.
