Two suspects charged with Pawtucket woman’s murder

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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE)- Two suspects have been charged in the murder of a Pawtucket woman on New Year’s Day.

Police say Jack Doherty, 23, of Albany, N.Y, and Shaylyn Moran, 18,  of Pawtucket, killed Cheryl Smith, 54, of Pawtucket.

The suspects were arraigned at Providence District Court on Thursday afternoon.

Both face charges of murder and conspiracy, while Doherty faces additional charges including unlawful possession of a handgun, resisting arrest, and assault and battery of a police officer.

It started when police were called to the 100 Baxter St. around 8:15 p.m. New Year’s Day for reports of shots fired.

“A couple in a row,” said neighbor Theresa Woodcock. “I wasn’t sure if it was fireworks, because it was fast. And then not too long after that, my neighbor told me that there were several cops down the street.”

Police found Smith shot multiple times in her chest. She was transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where she later died. 

Police say a black male dressed in dark clothing was seen fleeing the scene of the shooting when they arrived.

Pawtucket Police detectives began to investigate and were tipped off that the suspect may be staying at the Hampton Inn on George Street in Pawtucket. 

Police say they responded to the hotel and arrested Moran and Doherty, who had a 9mm handgun in his possession.

Community members say they’re shocked.

“I couldn’t believe it was right down the street from my house,” Woodcock said. “Pawtucket’s a crazy small place. A lot of us know all each other. So if I didn’t know them personally, somebody I know – it’s their loved one. So it hits hard all the way around.”

Police confirm that Moran had previously been in a relationship with Smith’s son.

Doherty and Moran are being held without bail and due back in court January 16th.

© WLNE-TV 2020