Providence man sentenced to two life terms for Mother's Day murder

Luis Sepulveda found guilty of killing Angel Rodriguez at a 2023 family party

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:20am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent shell casing, its metallic surface reflecting the harsh light of the camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the grim aftermath of a fatal shooting.A single spent shell casing from the murder weapon serves as a stark reminder of the devastating toll of gun violence in local communities.Providence Today

A Providence man was sentenced to two consecutive life sentences plus an additional 10 years for the 2023 murder of 44-year-old Angel Rodriguez at a Mother's Day party. Luis Sepulveda, 55, was found guilty by a jury last October of first-degree murder, assault with a dangerous weapon, using a firearm during a violent crime, and possessing a large-capacity feeding device.

Why it matters

This case highlights the devastating impact of gun violence in local communities, as well as the challenges of preventing repeat offenders from obtaining firearms. The victim's family shared emotional statements underscoring the trauma caused by the senseless murder.

The details

Prosecutors proved that Sepulveda shot Rodriguez in the chest after a fight broke out at the family party on Manton Avenue in Providence. Sepulveda then fled the scene but was stopped by state police on I-95 South, where a handgun was found in his vehicle. Ballistics analysis confirmed the gun was used in the murder, and Sepulveda's DNA was also found on the firearm.

  • The murder occurred on Mother's Day in 2023.
  • Sepulveda was found guilty by a jury in October 2025.
  • Sepulveda was sentenced on April 11, 2026.

The players

Luis Sepulveda

A 55-year-old Providence resident who was convicted of murdering Angel Rodriguez and sentenced to two consecutive life sentences plus an additional 10 years.

Angel Rodriguez

A 44-year-old Providence resident who was killed by Sepulveda at a Mother's Day party in 2023.

Peter Neronha

The Rhode Island Attorney General, who said the state proved Sepulveda's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and that the sentence, while unable to bring Rodriguez back, provides some measure of peace for his loved ones.

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What they’re saying

“These types of cases occur all too often when a person who is prohibited from owning and carrying a gun obtains one. This defendant senselessly murdered Angel Rodriguez, forever changing the lives of Angel's family, friends, and community.”

— Peter Neronha, Rhode Island Attorney General

“Prior to Angel's murder, this defendant demonstrated a well-documented pattern of violent criminal behavior, and as we know, violence begets violence. While this sentence can't bring Angel back, I hope it provides some measure of peace for those who cared for him.”

— Peter Neronha, Rhode Island Attorney General

What’s next

Sepulveda's defense attorney has appealed the ruling.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the devastating impact of gun violence in local communities and the ongoing challenges of preventing repeat offenders from obtaining firearms and committing further acts of violence. While the sentencing provides some closure for the victim's loved ones, it also serves as a somber reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of such crimes.