Narragansett, RI — A Rhode Island man is facing charges of domestic second-degree murder after allegedly strangling his mother and subsequently confessing to the crime via a 911 call. 27-year-old Bryan Wilson was arrested Monday, shortly after police were dispatched to perform a wellness check at the home he shared with his mother, Hawazoe Robinson.
Upon their arrival, authorities were met with the chilling admission from Wilson over the phone, claiming responsibility for the death following an altercation. Details of their argument remain limited, but the violent outcome has shaken the local community.
A neighbor, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared insights with local media, indicating that there had been previous police visits to Robinson’s home concerning disturbances involving her son. This incident marks a tragic escalation following a 2023 arrest when Wilson was charged with domestic simple assault against Robinson.
Wilson appeared in Washington County District Court on Tuesday. In addition to the murder charge, he faces accusations of violating a no-contact order. He has been held without the possibility of bail and his case has been referred to a grand jury. His next appearance in court is scheduled for October 9.
The ramifications of the crime extend beyond the legal proceedings. Robinson was remembered by neighbors as a kind and frequently traveling individual who had transformed a family inheritance into a philanthropic venture. She had converted a building she inherited in Liberia into a free Christian school for needy children, reflecting her commitment to giving back to the community.
Her charitable efforts and frequent trips to Africa endeared her to many in the community who are now mourning the loss of a benevolent figure. The impact of her death resonates deeply, not just in Rhode Island but across the communities in Liberia benefiting from her generosity.
As the investigation continues, questions linger about the motives behind Wilson’s actions and the broader implications for domestic disturbance interventions. The community, still reeling from the shock, awaits further details from the ongoing legal proceedings. Meanwhile, the memory of Robinson’s philanthropic spirit offers some consolation amid the tragic circumstances surrounding her death.
This incident highlights the critical importance of addressing and intervening in domestic violence situations before they escalate to irreversible outcomes. Social service agencies and local authorities might reassess approaches to preventing such family-related tragedies in the future, ensuring better protection and support for those at risk.