PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WPRI) — A Pawtucket man accused of seriously injuring another man by intentionally hitting him with his pickup truck was arraigned on a handful of charges, including three felonies during an appearance in Providence District Court Wednesday morning.
James Rohelia, 49, is charged with assault with intent to commit murder, felony assault, simple assault, duty to stop after an accident resulting in serious injury, disorderly conduct and driving with a suspended license.
No plea was entered on his behalf and bail was set at $75,000 with surety and he’s due back in court in September.
Police said they arrested Rohelia around 12:15 p.m. Tuesday following a brief standoff with detectives.
Eyewitnesses told police Rohelia and the victim got into an argument in a nearby Walgreens that spilled out into the parking lot. Police allege Rohelia then got into his truck and drove at the victim, hitting him with the truck in a Wendy’s parking lot before driving off.
The victim, identified only as a 31-year-old Central Falls man, was transported to Rhode Island Hospital with serious head trauma.
Police on Wednesday said the victim remains in critical condition, under an induced coma.
The incident remains under investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact Det. David Silva at (401) 640-0709 or (401) 727-9100 ext. 760.
