UPDATED – June 8
CUMBERLAND – Police are investigating what they’re describing as the suspicious death of an 18-year-old woman whose body was found at 46 East Barrows St. The victim was a Cumberland High School student.
Early on the morning of June 6, officers responded to the address for a report of an unresponsive female. They said they determined at the scene that the resident, 18-year-old Angelina Rocha, was dead.
Cumberland Police Department detectives, with help from Rhode Island State Police crime investigators, processed the scene and an active investigation into Angie Rocha’s death is ongoing.
Supt. Phil Thornton shared in an email with the community that Rocha was a student at Cumberland High School.
“It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of one of our high school students, Angelina Rocha,” he wrote. “This is a heartbreaking loss for our school community, and our thoughts are with Angelina’s family, friends, and all who knew and cared for her.”
He added, “We recognize that this news may be difficult to hear and may affect each person differently. During this time, please take care of yourselves and one another. If support is needed, staff and students are encouraged to reach out to our mental health providers, who are available to provide care, guidance, and support.”
An online fundraiser has been set up to help with funeral expenses.
Investigators were in and out of a home at 46 East Barrows St., and the property was taped off. The State Police Mobile Crime Lab was seen at the home for much of the weekend.
No arrests have been made, said Chief Matthew Benson, and no further details are being released at this time.
“On behalf of the men and women of the Cumberland Police Department, I offer my sincere condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Ms. Rocha,” said Benson in a statement. “This was a tragic circumstance which remains a highly active investigation at this time.”
He added, “I’d like to thank Col. Weaver and members of the Rhode Island State Police crime scene unit for their assistance over the weekend.”
East Barrows Street is located near the intersection of Dexter and High Streets.
