Police: Suspect in deadly Hopkinton pedestrian crash arrested 100+ times, victim remembered

HOPKINTON, R.I. (WLNE) — The suspect accused of striking and killing an elderly pedestrian Saturday has a lengthy criminal history, according to Hopkinton police.

41-year-old Shannon N. Godbout allegedly struck 70-year-old Roderick MacLeod while he was walking his dogs Saturday morning at approximately 7:21 a.m.

Macleod was transported to Rhode Island Hospital and died from his injuries, according to police.

According to police, Godbout left her lane and collided with two telephone poles before striking MacLeod on the shoulder of the eastbound lane of Spring Street.

She was allegedly found in possession of narcotics and packaging materials, and was charged with possession with intent to distribute, her third plus such offense, according to Hopkinton police.

She is also charged with driving to endanger resulting in death in the incident.

Police said that Godbout has been arrested over 100 times, has been subject to 82 court warrants and has been issued 40 traffic citations.

Godbout is being held in custody as Hopkinton police and Attorney General Peter Neronha’s office collaborate on charges.

They plan to present her as a probation violator, and will review evidence to determine “appropriate” charges for Godbout’s arraignment.

MacLeod was inducted into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame for his time as a bassist in Roomful of Blues, a Grammy-nominated band formed in Westerly.

“Rory” MacLeod was also a music teacher and also played music with his wife Sandol Astrausky.

The pair also worked as teacher associates at Brown University.