Grammy Nominee Killed by Driver With 100+ Arrests

Grammy-nominated bassist Rory MacLeod has died at the age of 70 after being struck by a vehicle in Hopkinton, Rhode Island, on Saturday morning. The musician was walking his dog when the incident occurred. The driver, Shannon Godbout, who has reportedly been arrested over 100 times and had 82 warrants issued, allegedly veered from her lane, hitting MacLeod and downing two telephone poles.

MacLeod, a former member of the esteemed blues group Roomful of Blues in the 1980s, was celebrated for his significant musical contributions and kind nature. His bandmates and friends remembered him as an upbeat, cheerful, and talented individual who made everything appear effortless. In recent years, MacLeod also taught banjo, guitar, and bass at Brown University with his wife, a fellow musician.

Shannon Godbout, 41, was arrested at the hospital and faces charges including driving to endanger resulting in death and drug possession with intent to distribute. Police found numerous illegal narcotics and packaging materials associated with drug distribution in her possession. Godbout has an extensive criminal history dating back to her youth, with dozens of court cases and prior convictions, including drug offenses and theft.