by Hopkinton, Rhode Island — A Grammy-nominated musician was struck and killed over the weekend while walking his dogs in Hopkinton, Rhode Island, in a tragic incident that has left the local music community in shock. Authorities revealed that the driver responsible has a lengthy criminal history, including more than 100 prior arrests.
Victim Identified as Roderick MacLeod
The victim, Roderick MacLeod, 70, was walking his dogs along Route 128 at approximately 7:21 a.m. Saturday when he was hit by an SUV, police said. MacLeod, a respected bassist from nearby Richmond, Rhode Island, earned a Grammy nomination in the 1980s as a member of the jump-blues and swing band Roomful of Blues.
He was transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Police extended condolences, stating:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. MacLeod’s family during this difficult time following this tragic incident.”
Driver Arrested at the Scene
The driver, 41-year-old Shannon Godbout, reportedly struck multiple objects, including two telephone poles, before hitting MacLeod on the shoulder of the road. She was found at the scene with illegal drugs and packing materials commonly associated with distribution, according to police.
Godbout was taken into custody and transported to a hospital. She faces charges including:
- Driving to endanger, resulting in death
- Possession of drugs with intent to distribute
Authorities said she may face additional charges, including probation violations, as the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office works to present her in court.
Driver’s Criminal History
Investigators highlighted Godbout’s extensive criminal record, which includes:
- Over 100 arrests, eight from Hopkinton Police Department
- 40 traffic citations, seven in Hopkinton
- Crimes charged in a dozen Rhode Island cities and towns
Most cases ended in no-contest pleas with suspended sentences, and she has previously been ordered to attend substance abuse counseling seven times, most recently in April. Her longest prison sentence for past offenses was just over two years.
Community Remembers MacLeod
Friends and fellow musicians remembered MacLeod as a talented and positive presence in the Rhode Island music scene. Fellow musician Doug James told WJAR:
“He was just always upbeat and cheerful. He was a good addition to anything he did. Few people play that well on everything, and he did.”
MacLeod was inducted into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame in 2012 as a member of Roomful of Blues. In the years following, he performed with multiple bands, including J.B. and the Sliding Capos.
James added:
“He was always great to be around and he was always great to play with. One hundred percent of the people that know him would say the exact same thing.”
Ongoing Investigation
Police continue to investigate the incident and are coordinating with the Attorney General’s Office regarding Godbout’s potential probation violations and additional charges. The community is mourning the loss of a respected musician while awaiting further legal proceedings.
How can communities better prevent tragic incidents involving repeat offenders on the road? Share your thoughts and memories of Roderick MacLeod in the comments below.
