Grammy-Nominated Bassist Rory Macleod Killed in Rhode Island — Driver Arrested With Narcotics and Long Arrest Record

Roderick "Rory" Macleod, a 70-year-old Grammy-nominated bassist, died after being struck by an SUV on the morning of Dec. 6 while walking his dogs in Hope Valley, Rhode Island, the Hopkinton Police Department said in a press release.

Emergency responders transported Macleod to Rhode Island Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Crash Details

Police identified the driver as 41-year-old Shannon Godbout. Authorities say Godbout allegedly left her lane, struck multiple objects — including two telephone poles — and then hit the pedestrian walking on the shoulder of the eastbound lane. A police-released image shows a black SUV that hit a pole with such force the wooden pole split, leaving large fragments of debris at the scene.

Arrest and Evidence

Officers at the scene reported finding Godbout in possession of what they described as "numerous illegal narcotics and packaging materials commonly associated with drug distribution." She was arrested at the crash site and transported to Westerly Hospital for treatment. As of Dec. 8, Hopkinton Police said she remained in custody while receiving care.

Preliminary Charges: Driving So As To Endanger Resulting In Death; Possession Of Narcotics With Intent To Distribute. Police noted this is the suspect's "third plus" offense and additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.

Background On The Driver

The Hopkinton Police Department said Godbout has an extensive criminal history: more than 100 prior arrests, 82 court warrants, and roughly 40 traffic citations. Chief Mark J. Carrier said the department is coordinating closely with the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office to present Godbout in court as a probation violator and to review all evidence ahead of arraignment in District Court.

Tributes And Career Highlights

Friends, fans and colleagues remembered Macleod for his musicianship and his contributions to the local and national music scene. He earned a Grammy nomination in the 1980s for his bass work with Roomful of Blues and was inducted into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame.

“Roomful of Blues would like to extend our deepest condolences to Rory Macleod’s family, friends and all of his fans,” the band said, praising his diverse musical contributions and calling him a "wonderful and gentle soul."

Macleod and his wife, Sandol Astrausky, served as Directors of Old-Time String Band and as Teaching Associates in Music at Brown University. In a 2024 Brown Alumni Magazine profile, the couple recalled meeting while performing at a New Year’s Eve celebration nearly 30 years earlier; Macleod said he learned guitar and banjo to play with Astrausky. The pair hosted annual summer music festivals on their 10-acre Hope Valley property.

Ongoing Investigation

Hopkinton police emphasized the investigation is active and that additional charges could be brought. The department asked anyone with information or dash-cam footage from the area to contact investigators as they compile evidence for prosecution.

Correction & Accuracy: This article reflects information released by the Hopkinton Police Department and statements from public sources. Allegations involving the driver are based on police statements and are subject to change as the investigation and legal process continue.