Rhode Island woman killed while working at Subway restaurant remembered as hard working, devoted

A Rhode Island woman is being remembered after being killed while working at a restaurant.

According to police, on Wednesday just before 3:00 p.m., the Smithfield Police Department responded to Subway Sandwiches located at 445 Putnam Pike for a report that a vehicle had crashed into the building.

Upon arrival, the Smithfield Police and Fire Departments found a vehicle crashed into the business with multiple persons injured. Four victims were transported to Rhode Island Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Sadly, one victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. The deceased victim has been identified as 47-year-old Charlotte Vacca of Woonsocket, RI. The driver of the vehicle was transported to Miriam Hospital.

The Smithfield Emergency Management Agency and Building Official also responded to the scene. The business was heavily damaged and is closed until further notice. The adjacent Planet Fitness also sustained damage and is currently closed.

Through a GoFundMe fundraiser, Vacca’s oldest daughter is remembering her mom.

“On June 7, 2023, while my mom was working at Subway in Smithfield, RI, a driver drove into her store, killing her. My mom was the most hard working and devoted person I’ve ever met in my entire life. She would give the shirt off her back to make sure our family was taken care of. She’s leaving behind my elderly grandmother, my 4 younger siblings (between the ages of 9-18), a loving boyfriend and his two children, as well as so many amazing family members and friends. Right now, we’re gathering as much information as we can in regard to what fully happened and attempting to make arrangements. We’re asking for help to cover my mom’s last wishes and anything that’ll allow me to take care of my family while we navigate this crippling loss.”

While officials stated Wednesday that speed was a factor, the cause of the crash, and any contributing factors, remains under investigation.