CRANSTON, R.I. — A late-night crash on Route 37 on Aug. 1 resulted in multiple hospitalizations and a felony driving-under-the-influence charge, Cranston police said Monday.
What happened
Police say the collision occurred shortly before 4 a.m. near the London Avenue exit when a 2013 BMW struck a 2021 Ram pickup from behind. The family of five riding in the Ram was transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where one person required surgical repair for a significant facial injury. The other four occupants were treated for minor injuries, according to a Cranston Police Department media release.
Suspect identified and arrested
Authorities identified the BMW driver as 29-year-old Enrique Alvarado of Providence. Officers allege he was traveling at a high rate of speed before the impact, which caused extensive damage to both vehicles and deployed airbags.
After the crash, witnesses told police the BMW driver tried to leave the scene on foot but was detained by the Ram’s driver until emergency crews arrived. First responders and officers at the scene reported signs consistent with alcohol impairment.
"Alvarado refused to perform standardized field sobriety tests and was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence," the Cranston Police Department said.
Alvarado was transported to Rhode Island Hospital as well. Hospital staff obtained a blood sample during his treatment, and detectives are seeking a court-authorized warrant to preserve that evidence, the release said.
Charges and immediate legal steps
Police have charged Alvarado with felony DUI. The department’s release did not list additional charges, nor did it offer details on arraignment or bail. The investigation remains active and detectives continue to gather evidence, including witness statements and the blood sample obtained by hospital staff.
Local impact and safety reminders
The crash highlights risks associated with impaired driving and excessive speed on state highways. Route 37 is a busy east-west corridor across Cranston; collisions there can involve multiple vehicles and present hazards to both motorists and nearby residents.
- Time and place: Route 37 near London Avenue, shortly before 4 a.m., Aug. 1.
- Vehicles involved: 2013 BMW (rear vehicle), 2021 Ram pickup (carrying five family members).
- Injuries: One family member with a serious facial laceration requiring surgical repair; four others with minor injuries; the BMW driver also received hospital evaluation.
What police observed
Cranston officers reported several outward signs they said indicated alcohol impairment, including unstable balance, watery and bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and the smell of alcohol. According to the department, the suspect declined both field sobriety testing at the scene and a chemical breath test at police headquarters.
Next steps for the investigation
Detectives are working to preserve medical and forensic evidence tied to the case, including seeking a court-authorized search warrant for the blood sample taken at the hospital. That sample could be crucial if charges proceed to prosecution.
| Item | Current status |
|---|---|
| Hospitalizations | Five family members and the BMW driver transported to Rhode Island Hospital |
| Serious injury | One passenger required surgical repair for a facial laceration |
| Criminal charge | Felony DUI against Enrique Alvarado, 29 |
| Evidence | Blood sample taken; detectives seeking warrant to preserve it |
The Cranston Police Department declined to provide further medical updates on the injured family members beyond what was released in the departmental statement. Prosecutors will determine formal charges and any potential court schedule as the investigation proceeds.
Drivers who witnessed the crash or who have additional information are encouraged to contact the Cranston Police Department’s crash investigation unit to assist in the ongoing inquiry.
This report is based on a police media release issued by the Cranston Police Department.
