Family Remembers Coventry Teen Killed While Trying to Protect Friend

“That is Nick. Through and through”

The family of a 19-year-old Coventry man who was fatally stabbed Monday night is remembering a quiet, kindhearted teenager who died trying to protect someone else. Nicholas Bennett was killed during an altercation on Anthony Street, according to Coventry police, in a sudden loss that has left his loved ones grappling with an impossible reality.

Officers responded to a report of a stabbing at 12 Anthony St. around 10:15 p.m. on October 26, 2026. For Bennett’s family, the hours following the tragedy have brought profound grief. “Terrible,” his brother, Jayson Gagnon, said when asked by NBC 10 to describe the immediate aftermath. “Broken,” added Bennett’s sister-in-law, Amber Bennett.

While police have not yet publicly confirmed the exact circumstances surrounding the altercation, relatives believe Nick stepped into danger to shield a friend. When asked if that selflessness surprised her, Amber didn’t hesitate. “That is Nick,” she said. “That is Nick. Through and through,” Gagnon added.

'He was a hero': Family remembers 19-year-old killed in Coventry stabbing

Nick Taught Himself to Play Multiple Instruments

Beyond his bravery, the teenager’s family wants people to remember his extraordinary musical talent and big ambitions. Gagnon recalled introducing his younger brother to music, but Nick quickly forged his own path.

“He ended up picking it up and teaching himself everything,” Gagnon said. “He just got so good at it.”

Coventry man, 19, killed in stabbing

Nick was primarily a guitar player, but his family notes he could play nearly any instrument, including the piano, trumpet, and drums. Gagnon remembers visiting home and constantly hearing his younger brother shredding on the guitar. He dreamed of making it big in the music industry. “He wanted to do it the old-fashioned way,” Amber said.

Described as an old soul with an exceptionally big heart, Nick never shied away from authenticity. “He did not mind showing you exactly who he was,” Amber said. “At all times, he was himself at all times and that’s rare.”

Police ID man killed in Coventry stabbing

The Ongoing Investigation and Search for Answers

Now, those dreams have been cut short. An unidentified suspect was originally scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, but the arraignment was canceled shortly after 2 p.m. Police have not yet released additional information about the suspect or the exact sequence of events that led to the stabbing.

The Coventry Police Department, the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, and the state medical examiner’s office are all actively involved in the investigation. As authorities search for clarity, Nick’s family waits for closure.

Woman says her son was killed in Coventry stabbing

“We hope the full truth comes out, and justice is served,” Nick’s brother Ryan Bennett said. “That’s all we hope for,” Gagnon added.

For now, loved ones plan to keep his memory alive simply by talking about him. “It’s tough, but we’ll just talk about him,” Gagnon said. “That’s all we can do. Just keep talking about him.”