Providence Police identify man shot and killed on Saturday

The victim was identified as 33-year-old man James Owens.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE)- A man was shot and killed in Providence on Saturday night, according to police.

The victim was identified as 33-year-old James Owens of Providence.

This marks the capital City’s 23rd homicide of 2021.

Officers responded to Huxley Avenue for reports of a person shot around 9:50 p.m.

Owens was rushed to Rhode Island Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Providence police said shortly after, the hospital was placed under a lockdown due to a report of shots fired nearby which was unfounded. The lockdown lasted about two hours.

According to Commander Thomas Verdi, there are no suspects yet and no weapon was recovered on scene. Cmmdr. Verdi says the shooting is believed to be targeted.

On Sunday, Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza released a statement on Saturday night’s violence saying:

“The availability of guns and the amount of firepower on our streets is simply unacceptable. As Mayor, I understand that our community needs and deserves to feel safe, and I will continue to do everything I can to work with our partners and leaders to address the causes of violence in our city. I have full confidence in the ability of our Providence Police Department to investigate this crime, seek justice, and continue to protect and serve our neighborhoods. If anyone has information regarding this incident, you are encouraged to contact the Providence Police.”

Owens was also a well known rap artist throughout the state.

ABC6 spoke with his family and friends less than 48 hours after his death.