by Hopkinton, Rhode Island – A respected figure in the state’s music community was killed over the weekend after being struck by a vehicle driven by a woman with more than 100 prior arrests and dozens of traffic violations, according to police. The victim, 70-year-old Roderick Macleod, was a Grammy-nominated musician best known for his work with the band Roomful of Blues.
Beloved Musician Remembered for Decades of Contributions
Macleod gained national recognition during the 1980s for his performances with Roomful of Blues, an acclaimed Rhode Island rhythm-and-blues ensemble. His contributions earned him a Grammy nomination, and he was later inducted into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame in 2014, cementing his legacy in the state’s musical history.
Local media described him as a “pillar of Rhode Island’s blues scene,” whose influence spanned generations of performers.
Police: Reckless Driver Veered Off Road Before Fatal Impact
According to a news release from the Hopkinton Police Department, the crash occurred Saturday as Macleod was out walking his dogs. Investigators say the driver, identified as 41-year-old Shannon Godbout, was traveling eastbound when she allegedly left her lane, striking multiple objects including two telephone poles before hitting Macleod, who was walking on the road’s shoulder.
Photos shared by police show a heavily damaged black vehicle and a snapped utility pole at the scene.
Macleod was rushed to Rhode Island Hospital, but police confirmed he died shortly after from his injuries. One of his dogs survived the impact and managed to run home, according to local reports.
Suspect Accused of Possessing Illegal Narcotics at the Scene
Police said Godbout was found to be in possession of illegal narcotics and packaging materials commonly linked to drug distribution.
She was taken into custody at the scene and later transported to a hospital for evaluation. According to CBS Boston, Godbout remains hospitalized and under police guard.
Authorities have charged her with driving to endanger resulting in death and possession of narcotics with intent to distribute. Investigators say additional charges are possible as the case develops.
Driver Has a Long Record of Arrests, Warrants, and Violations
While police did not provide full details of Godbout’s history, they confirmed she has a long criminal record:
- More than 100 total arrests
- Eight previous arrests from Hopkinton Police alone
- 82 active or past court warrants
- 40 traffic citations
“This case reflects an extremely dangerous pattern of behavior,” officials stated in their release, noting that the investigation remains active.
Community Shocked as Investigation Continues
Macleod’s sudden death has stunned Rhode Island’s arts community. His decades-long career, Grammy recognition, and induction into the state’s music hall of fame make him one of the region’s most celebrated musicians.
Police are continuing to reconstruct the crash and are urging anyone who witnessed the incident to contact investigators.
If you live in the area or knew the victim, share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
