Man Arrested In Connection With Fatal Cranston Shooting : Police

CRANSTON, RI — A man has been arrested in connection with a fatal shooting at a private residence on Tuesday afternoon, said Chief of Police Michel J. Winquist in a news release.

Charles Gangi, 73, is charged with first degree murder, discharge of a firearm resulting in death, assault with a dangerous weapon, and discharge of a firearm in a compact area, according to police.

Cranston police responded to 17 B Street at approximately 2:39 p.m. on Dec. 29 following a 911 call that reported someone had been shot, said Winquist. Officers found Paul Zoice, 41, unconscious and suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. He was transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Zoice lived at the 17 B Street residence with his mother, aunt, and Gangi, his mother's boyfriend. Gangi said he was "responsible for the shooting" when police arrived at the scene and was immediately detained and taken to Cranston Police Headquarters, said Winquist.

"A court-authorized search warrant was obtained to search the residence for physical evidence," said Winquist. "Two handguns were seized, including one handgun believed to be the murder weapon."

Police said said Zoice and Gangi got into a heated argument inside the home, during which Gangi shot Zoice in the chest. Zoice's mother and aunt were home at the time of the incident, but were not injured.

"I wish to commend the Patrol Officers and Detectives who investigated this homicide," said Winquist. "Their collective efforts resulted in the swift apprehension and charging of the suspect. Unfortunately, a menial argument resulted in a loss of life, especially during the holiday season."

Gangi is scheduled to be formally arraigned in the Third District Court on Wednesday, said police.