Fatal stabbing on a Providence pedestrian bridge

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The victim of a fatal stabbing on a downtown Providence pedestrian bridge Tuesday night has been identified by family members as 40-year-old Gerald “Jerry” Blair, who was reportedly experiencing homelessness.

Providence police responded to the Michael S. Van Leesten Memorial Bridge shortly before 11 p.m. after receiving reports of a stabbing. When officers arrived, they found Blair suffering from multiple stab wounds to the chest. First responders immediately began lifesaving efforts before transporting him to Rhode Island Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Detectives with the Providence Police Bureau of Criminal Identification spent hours processing the scene, collecting evidence, reviewing surveillance footage, and examining videos captured by witnesses. Investigators also recovered a knife that has been submitted for forensic testing, although authorities have not confirmed whether it was used in the attack.

As the investigation continued, officers searched the downtown area and detained two young males near Kennedy Plaza who reportedly matched witness descriptions. At this stage of the investigation, it is believed Blair was attacked by a group of males that included both juveniles and young adults. Detectives continue working to determine each person’s involvement and what led to the deadly confrontation.

Police confirmed Thursday an arrest was made in connection with the homicide. As of now, authorities have not released the identity of the person arrested or any additional information about potential charges.

Blair’s death marks Providence’s fourth homicide of 2026, matching the total number of homicides recorded in the city during all of 2025.

The investigation remains active, and anyone with information about the stabbing is encouraged to contact the Providence Police Department.