A woman has been sentenced in a New Year’s Eve hit-and-run that killed a local homeless Marine veteran.
According to his brother Michael, 57-year-old Edwin “Eddie” English died Tuesday January 9th, 2024, at 7:45 p.m. after being struck about 7:20 p.m. on New Year’s Eve 2023 at Rochambeau Avenue and North Main Street. He was taken to Rhode Island Hospital and later died of his injuries. Police said he was walking to a family New Year’s Eve party.
WJAR 10 is reporting that 35-year-old Ariel Acosta pleaded no contest Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026, in Providence Superior Court. She was sentenced to 15 years, with five years to serve and 10 years suspended, ordered to pay a $5,000 fine, and will have her license suspended for three years after her release.
Police had been looking for a dark SUV, possibly a Jeep Commander, with a Georgia dealer plate and likely front-end damage. Acosta was tied to a green 2005 Toyota Highlander that was towed to police headquarters. She was charged with hit-and-run, death resulting.
English served in the U.S. Marine Corps.
