Crime & Safety

Former Local Cop Struck, Killed by RIPTA Bus

Friends and family are mourning the death of Frank McKnight.

A longtime member of the North Kingstown Police Department who was working as a security officer at the federal courthouse in Providence, Frank McKnight, has died.

McKnight was struck by a RIPTA bus in downtown Providence on Wednesday while crossing the street near the courthouse and died at Rhode Island Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

In a statement, U.S. Marshal Jamie Hainsworth said McKnight was a dedicated, career law enforcement officer and public servant who came to work daily eager and ready to serve."

North Kingstown Police Capt. Steven St. Onge told WPRI that McKnight was a vibrant person who was just a great person.

McKnight was struck by a bus making a left turn onto Washington Street as he walked through a crosswalk. 

The driver of the bus is on paid administrative leave pending an investigation and RIPTA officials said she is distraught about the accident. There is no indication that the bus driver was impaired.

McKnight was a 25-year veteran of the North Kingstown Police Department and worked as a security officer for 13 years after his retirement from the force.


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