Driver Wanted for Rhode Island Homicide Crashes in Massachusetts, Killing 2

Suspect Demitri Sousa allegedly shot a man hours earlier before the fatal crash in Swansea, Massachusetts.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A 28-year-old man wanted in connection with a homicide investigation in Rhode Island crashed his car in Swansea, Massachusetts early Friday morning, killing a man and a woman. Demitri Sousa was allegedly involved in a shooting in Cranston, Rhode Island just hours before the fatal crash, where he is accused of fatally shooting 35-year-old Javon Lawson.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of high-speed chases and the need for better coordination between law enforcement agencies across state lines. It also raises questions about bail reform and whether more could have been done to prevent this violent crime spree.

The details

According to authorities, Sousa was caught on surveillance video fleeing the Cranston, Rhode Island shooting scene in a white 2013 Infiniti G37. Swansea police later spotted the vehicle traveling at a "very high rate of speed" on Route 6 and attempted to stop it, but Sousa crashed into a blue 2022 Subaru Ascent, killing the two occupants. Police recovered a .22-caliber revolver believed to be the weapon used in the Cranston shooting from Sousa's vehicle.

  • On Thursday, February 26 at around 8:30 p.m., Cranston police responded to a report of a shooting at a home on Legion Way.
  • Just after 12:15 a.m. on Friday, February 27, Swansea police spotted Sousa's vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on Route 6.
  • Moments later, around 12:15 a.m., Sousa crashed into the Subaru Ascent, killing the two occupants.

The players

Demitri Sousa

A 28-year-old man from Seekonk, Massachusetts who was the suspect in the Cranston, Rhode Island homicide and the driver involved in the fatal crash in Swansea, Massachusetts.

Javon Lawson

A 35-year-old man who was fatally shot in Cranston, Rhode Island prior to the crash.

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What they’re saying

“On behalf of the Cranston Police Department, I want to extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Javon Lawson and the two individuals who were killed in the crash in Swansea. These were senseless acts of violence that have left families grieving and a community shaken.”

— Colonel Michael J. Winquist, Cranston Police (boston25news.com)

What’s next

Sousa will face a judge when he is medically cleared after sustaining serious injuries in the crash. Cranston police continue to investigate the initial shooting, while the Massachusetts State Police and troopers assigned to the Bristol District Attorney's Office are assisting Swansea police with the crash investigation.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the need for better coordination between law enforcement agencies across state lines to prevent violent crimes and high-speed chases that put innocent lives at risk. It also highlights the ongoing challenges around bail reform and public safety.