Our hearts are heavy and broken beyond words over the tragic and senseless loss of Domonick Knight—a life taken too soon, under circumstances that demand not only mourning, but accountability.
This one hits painfully close to home.
Dom, as he was lovingly known, was a son of Newport, Rhode Island—a devoted father, husband, son, friend, neighbor, and a proud United States Veteran who served this country with honor and sacrifice. Domonick gave of himself in service to our nation. But when he needed help—true help—his country failed him in the most unforgivable way.
Domonick was experiencing a mental health crisis. He was unarmed. Vulnerable. In need of compassion, care, and trained intervention. Instead, what he was met with was violence and deadly force at the hands of the Fall River Police Department. What should have been a life-saving response turned into a life-ending act. And that is disgraceful. It is inhuman, unjust, and completely unacceptable.
We must speak these truths clearly:
Domonick Knight was not a threat. He was a man calling out—directly or indirectly—for help. That call was answered with bullets. And now a community is grieving, a family is broken, and a nation once again is forced to confront the failure of its systems to treat Black lives, veterans, and mental illness with dignity and humanity.
Domonick deserved better.
His life mattered.
And he should still be here.
To his loved ones—Auntie Brenda, Anthony Knight, his wife, his beautiful children, extended family, and friends—please know that we grieve with you. We hold space for your sorrow. And we stand beside you in your demand for justice, truth, and accountability. May you find strength in your memories of Dom, in your love for him, and in the community that refuses to let his name fade.
We call on all who read this:
Raise your voice. Demand answers. Refuse to let this become just another headline. Let Domonick’s name echo with power—not just in protest, but in purpose. His legacy deserves that. His children deserve that. We all deserve a world where help doesn’t cost a life.
Rest in power, Domonick Knight.
You are not forgotten. Your story matters. And we will keep fighting in your name.
— Yolanda Jones
Let me know if you’d like this adapted for press release use, included with a petition or justice campaign, or quoted for a vigil or public memorial.
Leave a Reply