Providence Man Gets Life Sentence For Murder At Local Restaurant

PROVIDENCE, RI — A Providence man was sentenced Tuesday to serve two consecutive life sentences for shooting and killing a man in a restaurant in 2021,Attorney General Peter Neronha said Friday.

On March 15, Juan Rivera, 37, was found guilty of first-degree murder, discharging a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence resulting in death, carrying a pistol without a license, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and assault with a deadly weapon. The charges were in connection to the killing of Jorge Garcia, 38, at Roque’s Café in Providence.

"Frequent gun violence can desensitize us to the gut-wrenching stories of loss and trauma caused by firearms," Neronha said. "However, we must remain resolute in our efforts to prevent further tragedies and protect our communities and hold accountable those who commit such violence. I can only hope this sentencing brings the victim’s family a measure of peace. And I thank the Providence Police for their partnership in this case and so many others."

During the trial, prosecutors proved that on Sept. 25, 2021, Rivera walked into Roque's Café while wearing a mask and shot Garcia six times, killing him. Investigators obtained security footage from the restaurant and surround area to piece together Rivera's movement before and after the shooting.

Prosecutors said investigators also conducted a forensic analysis of Rivera's phone and tracked him to his home on Broad Street, where Roque's is located, at the time of the murder.

"Senseless violence and tragedies such as this reverberate through our communities, and those who perpetrate these acts must continue to be removed from our streets to better prevent them from occurring," Providence Police Col. Oscar Perez said. "While there is no justice that can undo the pain caused to this victim’s family, it is my hope that this sentencing provides a measure of comfort."

The judge also deemed Rivera a habitual offender and imposed a 10-year consecutive sentence, the first five years of which are not eligible for parole.

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