Rhode Island State Troopers involved in highway shooting identified

PROVIDENCE — Authorities have released the names of the Rhode Island State Police (RISP) Troopers involved in a deadly shooting on I-95 in Providence.

On Thursday, November 9, 12-year veteran Trooper Michael J. Doherty's cruiser was stolen by 35-year-old Donald Morgan. While police were searching for the cruiser, they got a tip that Morgan had tried to carjack a white pickup truck. Several vehicles with a matching description were stopped.

MORE: Suspect accused of stealing R.I. state police cruiser arrested

One white pickup truck that officers attempted to stop continued traveling and got onto I-95 in Providence. Eventually the vehicle got boxed in and the driver rammed into several cars. State police fired multiple shots into the truck killing the driver, 32-year-old Joseph Santos, and injuring a passenger, 37-year-old Christine Demers.

MORE: Man shot, killed by Providence police during search for suspect

The four Troopers involved in this shooting were: 20-year veteran Detective Lieutenant Cynthia Trahan, 20-year veteran Corporal Scott Carlsten, 12-year veteran Detective Corporal Herbert Tilson and 6-year veteran Trooper Garrett Hassett.

Officials say the troopers fired a total of 23 shots. All four are on administrative leave.

Once RISP has completed its investigation into the two incidents, it will turn its findings over to the Office of the Attorney General.

Cox Media Group