Authorities release identity of 66-year-old man who jumped from Mount Hope Bridge as more details revealed

Authorities have released more details after a local mother and son were found deceased this week.

According to police, on Monday at just before 10:15 a.m., at the request of the Bristol Police Department, Newport Police Officers responded to the Harbor Base Inn, 372 Connell Highway, room 132, to make a death notification to 85-year-old Terry Costello that her 66-year-old son, Bernard Costello had jumped from the Mount Hope Bridge. 

When officers arrived at the hotel room, they found Terry Costello deceased inside the room. Based upon initial observations of the immediate scene, the responding officers believed the death was suspicious in nature. The scene was secured and a search warrant was obtained for the room. Upon facilitating the search warrant and continuing the investigation, it was observed that Ms. Costello had stab wounds to her upper body. The Rhode Island State Medical Examinator’s Office is in the process of conducting their investigation including an autopsy. At this time, the official cause of death has not been determined however this incident is being investigated as a homicide. 

Based upon the evidence at the scene, Bernard Costello is the primary suspect. Newport Police are confirming that this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to public safety as they do not believe there was anyone else involved.

If anyone has any information on this case, please contact Detective Mike McCabe at 401-845-5771 or mmcabe@newportri.gov. 

The Newport Police Department encourages anyone in crisis to seek help immediately and check in on family members, friends, neighbors, and loved ones who may be struggling. Early intervention and compassionate support can save lives. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, feelings of hopelessness, or thoughts of suicide, help is available 24 hours a day. Support is only a phone call or text away: 

• Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call 911 if there is an immediate danger or emergency 

• Text “HOME” to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line 

• Veterans can press 1 after calling 988 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line • Spanish-speaking counselors are available through 988 by pressing 2