Man Convicted of Murdering 10-Year-Old in Massachusetts Arrested in Rhode Island on Several Gun and Drug Charges

The arrest of Javier Soto, 40, in Providence, Rhode Island, has left many in shock. Soto, who was convicted for the murder of 10-year-old Zoe Lopez in Fall River, Massachusetts, back in 2009, has now been arrested again on multiple gun and drug charges. His new charges, which include possession of firearms and trafficking drugs, are raising serious questions about his release from prison just a few years ago.

A Life Changed Forever

For Carlos Lopez and his family, Zoe’s father, the arrest of the man who killed his daughter brings up waves of painful memories. Zoe was just 10 years old when she was tragically killed in a gang-related shooting. She had been playing outside when a stray bullet took her life, and Soto, who was part of the gang involved, was convicted for her death.

“When we lost Zoe, it was like the world stopped. She was just a little girl with so much ahead of her,” Carlos shared, his voice still heavy with grief. “To hear that he’s back out there again, causing more damage… it’s a heartbreak I can’t explain.”

Soto was sentenced to life in prison for his role in Zoe’s murder, but in 2022, after serving just a few years, he was granted parole. His release was met with backlash from the community, especially from those who had seen firsthand the devastation his actions had caused.

“I remember when they announced his release,” said Maria Salazar, Zoe’s teacher. “It felt like the justice system had failed Zoe. To know that this man could walk free after what he did — it just didn’t seem right.”

The Arrest in Rhode Island

Soto’s most recent arrest took place on April 15, 2025, in Providence, Rhode Island. A law enforcement operation led by the Rhode Island State Police and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force targeted illegal activities in the area. Soto was found at an apartment with an illegal firearm and several bags of what police suspect to be drugs. His arrest has shocked many, especially given his violent past.

“This is a reminder that some individuals just don’t change,” said Captain George Howard of the Rhode Island State Police. “Soto was given a second chance, and he clearly wasn’t ready for it.”

For those who remember the pain of Zoe’s death, Soto’s return to criminal behavior feels like a cruel twist of fate.

“We’ve lived with this nightmare for so long,” Carlos Lopez said. “Now, we have to live with the reality that this man was out there hurting others, too. It’s like Zoe’s death didn’t matter to him, and it’s devastating.”

A Long History of Violence

Soto’s criminal history spans more than just the tragic killing of Zoe. Before her murder, he had been involved in several violent crimes, including assaults and robberies. His involvement in gangs and his violent behavior were well-known to law enforcement.

“He was always a danger, even before Zoe’s death,” said Detective James Walker, who worked on Soto’s case. “He’s shown time and time again that he’s a threat to the community. Unfortunately, we’ve seen how people like him can slip through the cracks.”

Many are left wondering how he was ever allowed back on the streets in the first place. Soto’s violent past and his history of causing harm left many feeling uneasy when he was granted parole.

“I’ll never understand why someone like him was given a second chance,” said Anna Martinez, a Fall River resident. “Zoe didn’t get a second chance, and neither did her family.”

The Impact on Zoe’s Family

For Zoe’s family, Soto’s arrest brings back an ocean of grief. But it also brings a renewed sense of determination. Carlos Lopez and his family have fought for justice ever since Zoe’s death, and this latest arrest only strengthens their resolve.

“This doesn’t bring Zoe back, but we have to keep fighting,” Carlos said, wiping his eyes. “She was our world. And we want people to know her story, not just the man who took her life.”

The Lopez family’s fight for justice is not over, and while Soto now faces serious new charges, it’s clear that the pain they feel is still fresh.

“Nothing can bring her back, but we want to make sure he never gets the chance to hurt anyone again,” Carlos added, a quiet strength in his voice. “Our mission hasn’t changed. We will always fight for Zoe.”

What Happens Next?

Soto is now in custody at the A.C.I. in Cranston, Rhode Island, awaiting trial for the new charges, which include possession of firearms by a convicted felon and drug trafficking. His new arrest could result in a long sentence, keeping him behind bars for years to come.

“I just hope this time the system doesn’t fail,” said Rachel Stone, the District Attorney. “People like Soto have shown us who they are, and they need to be held accountable.”

For Zoe’s family, the road to healing is long, but they are determined to stay the course. “We’ve had to fight every step of the way,” Carlos Lopez said. “But Zoe deserves justice. And we’ll keep pushing until she gets it.”

The Community’s Response

In both Rhode Island and Massachusetts, people have reacted strongly to Soto’s arrest. The shock of hearing he was out on parole, only to be caught in yet another criminal act, has many questioning the parole system and whether enough is being done to protect communities.

“It’s frustrating,” said Carlos Lopez, his voice breaking. “The system should protect families, not put them at risk. We need to do better.”

Though the Lopez family’s pain is still raw, they continue to speak out in honor of Zoe’s memory. “She was more than just a victim,” Carlos said. “She was a daughter, a sister, a friend. And we will always love her.”