Man facing felony offenses, rider cited for list of violations, after trash barrel thrown at motorcycle rider during Providence feast

An arrest has been made in an incident that brought a lot of attention on social media.

Robert Maggiacomo

The Providence Police Department has announced that they have charged 35-year-old Robert Maggiacomo of Cumberland with two felony offenses in connection with an incident that occurred on Atwells Avenue during the Feast of St. Joseph on June 6th.  

The investigation determined that Maggiacomo allegedly threw a trash can at a moving motorcycle being operated on Atwells Avenue, causing the motorcycle operator to lose control and crash. 

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“The safety of everyone attending community events in Providence is our top priority. This investigation revealed actions that allegedly placed a motorcyclist and numerous members of the public at serious risk of harm,” said Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez. “I want to commend our detectives for their thorough work in identifying those involved and gathering the evidence necessary to bring these charges. Dangerous conduct that jeopardizes public safety carries real consequences, and our department remains committed to holding individuals accountable when their actions put others at risk.”  

Detectives conducted numerous witness interviews, obtained recorded statements, and collected surveillance evidence as part of the investigation.

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The motorcycle operator was identified as 19-year-old Michael Carnevale of Johnston. 

As a result of the investigation, the motorcycle operator, Michael Carnevale, has been cited for the following motor vehicle violations: 

• Operating a Motorcycle – License Required 
• Operating a Motor Vehicle Without Evidence of Insurance 
• Driving with Expired Registration 
• Left of Center Passing of a Vehicle Proceeding in the Opposite Direction 
• Due Care by Drivers 
• Care in Starting from a Stop 
• Conditions Requiring Reduced Speed 
• Failure to Maintain Control 
• Entering or Leaving Limited Access Roadways 
• Obedience to Traffic Control Devices 

In addition, Carnevale is facing a misdemeanor charge of Reckless Driving. 

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The investigation remains active. Police say that additional information will be released as it becomes available.