Darmani Fabian Balbuena Mesquin

With heavy hearts, family and friends announced the passing of Darmani Fabian Balbuena Mesquin, an 18-year-old Black/African American male remembered for his kind heart and radiant smile. According to his loved ones, Darmani brought immeasurable joy and light into their lives and was always one to smile and lend a hand. His family described the pain left behind by his “unjust swift departure” and said his smile would forever stay in their memories. He is survived by his loving mother, Darisa, his brother, Darling, his sister, Darielis, and many other relatives and friends.

On the day he should have been celebrating his entrance into adulthood, August 25, 2024, Darmani was shot during a gathering for his 18th birthday. The incident occurred outside his home on Rhodes Street in Providence, Rhode Island. First responders found him with a gunshot wound to his chest and rushed him to a local hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

The Providence Police Department conducted an extensive investigation into the fatal shooting. Their efforts culminated nearly two months later, on October 16, 2024, with the arrests of three men from the nearby city of Pawtucket. The suspects were identified as 18-year-old Jalen Santiago, 20-year-old Julien Santiago, and 19-year-old Jose Diaz.

All three men were charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy in connection with Darmani’s death. Following their arraignments, they were ordered to be held without bail. The case progressed further when, in January 2025, a grand jury returned an indictment against Julien Santiago, Jalen Santiago, and Jose Diaz, charging them with murder. As of January 2025, the case against the three men was proceeding through the court system.