In Loving Memory of Santos Manuel Bonet (1975–2025)

In Loving Memory of Santos Manuel Bonet (1975–2025)

Providence, Rhode Island – The community of Cranston and the broader Rhode Island region is mourning the tragic and untimely loss of Santos Manuel Bonet, a 49-year-old husband, father, and beloved friend, who died following a fiery crash on Interstate 95 South in Providence on Sunday, June 23, 2025.

The devastating accident occurred less than a week ago, prompting an emergency response that revealed the true gravity of the crash. According to Rhode Island State Police, the crash resulted in one fatality and led to the arrest of Licheva Castro, 36, who now faces a series of serious charges including:

• Driving Under the Influence Resulting in Death
• Driving to Endanger Resulting in Death
• Obstructing an Officer in the Execution of Duty
• Driving with a Suspended License
• Possession of Cocaine (active arrest warrant)

Police say Castro’s impaired and reckless driving contributed directly to the horrific crash, which resulted in a vehicle becoming engulfed in flames. Despite the best efforts of emergency responders, Santos Bonet could not be saved.

A Life Remembered

Santos Bonet’s family confirmed his identity to NBC 10 WJAR, describing him as a dedicated family man with a deep love for his community and a kind heart that touched everyone he encountered. Originally from Puerto Rico and a longtime resident of Cranston, Santos built a life grounded in hard work, compassion, and unwavering devotion to his loved ones.

He leaves behind his wife, his 31-year-old son, and a six-year-old daughter, who are now left to navigate life without the steady, loving presence of the man they called husband and father.

A GoFundMe campaign started by the family is now raising funds to assist with funeral expenses and to support his wife and young daughter in the wake of this unimaginable loss. Messages left on the fundraiser page speak volumes about the impact Santos had on those around him — remembering him as a warm, generous soul who always prioritized family and community.

Community in Mourning, Demanding Change

The tragedy has sparked widespread grief and renewed calls for stronger action against impaired driving. Friends and neighbors gathered at a candlelight vigil to honor Santos’ memory, offering prayers, stories, and tears.

“Santos was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back,” one neighbor shared. “He didn’t deserve this. His family didn’t deserve this.”

Providence and Cranston officials echoed the sentiments, expressing their condolences and urging the public to reflect on the lasting consequences of impaired and reckless driving.

Seeking Justice

As the investigation continues, Licheva Castro remains in custody, facing multiple felony charges. Authorities say she was not only under the influence during the crash but also had a suspended license and an active warrant related to narcotics possession.

“This was a completely preventable tragedy,” said a spokesperson for the Rhode Island State Police. “One family’s life has been shattered forever.”

Prosecutors have pledged to pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law, as the Bonet family prepares to lay their loved one to rest.

A Final Farewell

Funeral arrangements for Santos Manuel Bonet will be announced in the coming days. Family members ask for privacy as they grieve and request that any support be directed through the GoFundMe account or shared in the form of prayer and remembrance.

Santos’s legacy will live on through the love he gave so freely, the lessons he imparted, and the lives he touched. His tragic passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for safer roads and responsible choices.

Rest in peace, Santos Manuel Bonet.
Forever missed. Forever loved.