FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 18, 2026

Contact: communications@ri.gop

Statement from Rhode Island Republican Party on Tragic Pawtucket Shooting

WARWICK, RI – Republican Party of Rhode Island Chairman Allyn Meyers released the following statement on the tragic shooting in Pawtucket on Monday:

“Rhode Island is devastated by the senseless act of violence that occurred on Monday in Pawtucket. A celebration of high school boys on their senior day from several area high schools was forever marred by this tragedy.”

“Our hearts are with the victims, parents, family members, teachers, and everyone impacted by this incident. We are deeply grateful to the first responders who acted swiftly to provide aid to the injured, secure the scene, and continue their investigation. The entire Republican Party of Rhode Island is united in prayer for healing and strength for all affected.”

“Rhode Island, like much of the country, is confronting a profound mental health and crisis. Families are bearing the weight of that crisis at a scale we can no longer dismiss as incidental. That weight now hits closer to home than ever before.”

“As we move forward, we must look at all root causes of this act of violence and not shy away from discussions and serious policy decisions about mental health, treatment, and the wider impact on the community. There is no one-fix solution, but an honest evaluation of harmful policies is much-needed to stem any future violent acts from harming Rhode Islanders.”