Chaos erupted in Newport early Friday, July 5, when gunshots rang out near Jade Way and Kennedy Road just before 1 a.m. Newport Police were quick to respond, but by the time they arrived, the scene had already escalated. Friends had rushed a wounded victim to Newport Hospital, where he was later transferred to Rhode Island Hospital for further treatment. Thankfully, his injuries were non-life-threatening.
In the wake of the incident, Newport Police Detectives zeroed in on a suspect. Johnny Escobar, 24, of Middletown, was soon identified as a key player in the night’s violence. An arrest warrant was issued, charging Escobar with a laundry list of offenses, including Possession of Firearms by Certain Persons Prohibited, Assault with Intent to Commit Specified Felonies, and License or Permit Required for Carrying a Pistol and Firing in a Compact Area.
The investigation is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to step forward. Detective Walsh can be reached at 401-845-5775 or via email at pwalsh@cityofnewport.com.
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