UMass student charged with murder to be tried in Providence

UMass Dartmouth student Chukuwnonwo Uzoma-eze, 19,  has been charged with the murder of 18-year-old Marvins Antoine, a football player on the UMass Dartmouth team. He also injured Kensley Macean, 19, also on the football team.

On Saturday, Sept. 19, Antoine, Uzoma-eze and a number of other students were in Providence, Rhode Island at Mezzo Lounge. 

Around 12:30 a.m., the group was waiting in line outside the Mezzo Lounge, when the lounge reached capacity and stopped letting people in. The group moved across the street to the Wendy’s parking lot where the fight broke out. The reason for the fight is unknown.

During this, Uzoma-eze allegedly stabbed Antoine and Macean. Antoine was stabbed in the chest and died in the hospital. Macean received injuries to his head and neck, which he was treated for. 

Uzoma-eze was located and taken into custody by the UMass Dartmouth Police. 

Mark Fuller, UMass Dartmouth chancellor, sent a press release to students the day of the murder saying that there was no continued threat to students and reminding students of the counseling resources. 

“Our hearts and prayers are very much with Marvins’ family, friends, classmates, and teammates as we mourn his loss together,” he stated in the press release. “We also send our prayers and best wishes for Kensley’s recovery, and hope that he will be able to resume his education here soon.”

During a hearing in New Bedford on Monday, Sept. 21, Uzoma-eze agreed to be extradited to Rhode Island for the arraignment. The date of when he will be transferred is unknown, but his next court date is Monday, Sept. 28. He is currently being held without bail until extradition. 

Once in Rhode Island courts, Uzoma-eze will also be charged with a felony assault for stabbing Macean. 

UMass Dartmouth will be hosting a vigil for Antoine on Wednesday, Sept. 23 at 5:15 p.m.