Category: News – Local

by Clara Johnson ’26 on December 11, 2025

On Friday evening, Dec. 5, Providence police officers, fire department units, and Providence College campus security responded to an off-campus party hosted on Liege Street for reports of a drug overdose. Seven Providence College students were administered life-saving care, including administering Naloxone, often referred to by the brand name Narcan, which can reverse the symptoms of overdose. The seven students were then transported to local hospitals. 

In the wake of the incident, the Providence Police Department began an investigation which resulted in the arrest of three people. The suspects, Angel Williams, 33, Patrick Patterson, 32, and Kimsheree Simoneau, 33, now face multiple drug and firearm charges. 

In response to this tragedy, associate vice president of public affairs, community, and government relations, Steve Maurano commented, “We are gathering information at this time and will be conducting a thorough investigation in the days ahead”.

Students, parents, and the Friar community have been abuzz following this event, expressing concern for the health and well-being of the students whose lives were put at risk. It also raises questions about how individuals, the school, and the community can prepare for events such as this and save lives in the same way that these first responders did.

 One resource that saves lives in this and many other similar events is Naloxone, which, as mentioned, can reverse the impacts of an opioid in the case of an overdose. Symptoms of an overdose include: irresponsiveness, pinpoint pupils, pale and clammy skin, and a slow heartbeat, but typically the most identifiable and dangerous symptom is slow, irregular, or stopped breathing. Naloxone does not cause any harm, even if a person is not experiencing an overdose, meaning it can be administered at any time an overdose is suspected. While training is available on how to administer Naloxone, it is not required—anybody can carry or administer Naloxone. 

On campus, there is Naloxone available in nearly every residential or public building. Not only are public safety officers and EMTs equipped with and trained to administer Naloxone, but, as of August of this school year, all RAs have been trained too. Additionally, there are dozens of community resources that supply free Naloxone which can be picked up or mailed.

This incident has brought questions to the forefront on how communities should support and prevent tragedies such as this one.

If you or someone you know struggles with substance use disorder or needs support in the aftermath of this event, there are many resources available. The Personal Counseling Center can be reached at (401) 865-2343. If it is after hours, and you are still interested in speaking with a crisis counselor, call the same number and press two to speak with the counselor on-call. If you are experiencing an emergency, please call (401) 865-2222.