Suspect’s name released, facing several charges after shooting death of Rhode Island salon owner

The name has been released Sunday of the man accused of murdering a local business owner.

34-year-old Michael Fernandes of Pawtucket was charged with domestic murder, discharge of a firearm resulting in death, carrying a pistol without a license, carrying a large capacity feeding device, and violation of a no contact order.

According to Pawtucket Police, at approximately 8:00 p.m., officers responded to the area of 430 Central Avenue for the report of gunshots.

Upon arrival, officers located a female victim on the corner of Central Avenue at Kenyon Avenue. The victim was observed with multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced deceased on scene. A grey colored SUV was observed fleeing the scene.

After further investigation, detectives learned that the incident appears to be domestic related.

Family members say the victim is Jocelyn DoCouto, the owner of JaeSlayed/Beatbymaggz Hair Salon on 440 Central Avenue, just steps from where the fatal shots were reportedly fired.

Hours before the shooting, DoCouto made social media posts referencing that there may have been trouble. One of them is as follows.

“If you’re a mother to a son, please love him correctly and instill that understanding of emotional intelligence so he can at very least not grow to be a man with mommy issues and literally terrorize women due to his inability of regulating his emotions. That’s it. That’s all. Thanks for coming to my TEDtalk.”

Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien issued a statement yesterday concerning the death of DoCouto.

“Today, the Pawtucket community mourns the loss of a young mother, entrepreneur, and beloved friend to many. Unfortunately, senseless acts of gun violence and domestic violence continue to impact cities across the nation. In our ongoing efforts to promote a safer community, we remain committed to enhancing education, awareness and support that will lead to harm reduction and domestic violence prevention in our community. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family, friends, and our community as a whole.”

Fernandes is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday.