Loved ones remember 3-year-old Rhode Island boy fatally struck on bicycle as loving, full of life

Tragedy struck earlier this week as a young child was fatally struck. Those who knew him are remembering his life that was cut far too short.

According to multiple reports, on Thursday, 3-year-old Vinny Vilayleut of Woonsocket was fatally struck by a car while riding his bicycle near the intersection of Mason Street and 10th Avenue, shortly after 6:00 p.m.

Vilayleut was rushed to Landmark Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead due to his injuries.

The driver, identified as a 25-year-old man, remained at the scene and is cooperating with the ongoing police investigation. Preliminary reports indicate no immediate charges have been filed against the driver, with police conducting field sobriety tests and accident reconstruction to determine the cause.

Vinny’s loved ones described him as a beautiful and smart boy full of life.

“Vinny had the brightest smile and the warmest heart. He was full of life — always running around, laughing, singing, dancing and giving hugs. He lit up every room just by being in it. Anyone who met him fell in love with him instantly. He brought so much happiness to our lives in the short time he was here.”

Vilayleut’s funeral will be held at 8:00 a.m. on July 2nd, 2025, at Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, 331 Smith Street, Providence, RI.