PAWTUCKET – Police last week identified the city's first homicide victim of 2012 as Richard C. Cruz, a 28-year-old who lived on Pleasant Street in Pawtucket.

Cruz was remembered during a fund-raiser and candlelight vigil on Sunday, as family and friends demanded “justice for Rich” and recalled a young man they said loved doing good to others.

Sunday's events were organized by the Woodlawn Community Center, in partnership with the NonViolence Initiative.

On Wednesday evening, Jan. 25, at approximately 8 p.m., the Pawtucket Police Department was notified of a male who had collapsed on the corner of Main Street and School Street. Investigators and rescue personnel found Cruz unconscious on the sidewalk.

Cruz, who had suffered several stab wounds, was transported to Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The investigation remains fluid and ongoing, according to police, who believe that Cruz was stabbed by someone he knew. They say further information will be made available as it develops. An acquaintance of Cruz told The Breeze Friday that those who knew him do not believe that he was involved in any gang activity.

Cruz was a life-long Pawtucket resident who loved to walk around the city, according to his friends and family. They called him "a kind and handsome young man." The youngest of seven siblings, he was the beloved uncle of many nieces and nephews. He attended Davies Career and Technical High School.

Anyone with information regarding the death of Cruz is asked to call the Pawtucket Police Department at 401-727-9100 and ask for Detective Sgt. Winsor, at ext. 722, or Detective Doran, at ext. 742.

All proceeds from Sunday’s event are being used to help defray funeral costs and related expenses. Checks should be made payable to the Richard Cruz Memorial Fund. Donations may be mailed to any Bank RI location in care of the Richard Cruz Memorial Fund, including the branch at 499 Smithfield Ave., Pawtucket, RI 02860.