Grammy-Nominated Musician Killed by Driver With 100 Arrests
Shannon N. Godbout. Photo courtesy of Hopkinton Police Department.
Roderick "Rory" Macleod was out for a simple morning walk with his dog on December 6, 2025, in Hope Valley, Rhode Island. What should have been a peaceful start to the day turned into a heartbreaking tragedy that stunned a community and the music world alike. The Grammy-nominated bassist, known for his soulful contributions to Roomful of Blues and his deep roots in folk and old-time music, was reportedly struck and killed by an SUV driven by a woman with a long criminal history. This sudden loss reminds us how fragile life can be, even in the quietest moments.
A Life in Music and Community
Rory Macleod was more than just a musician; he was a beloved figure in Rhode Island's music scene. His career spanned decades, highlighted by a Grammy nomination in the 1980s for his work with Roomful of Blues, a band celebrated for its jump-blues and swing style. In 2012, Macleod and his bandmates were inducted into the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy in the state's cultural history.
Beyond his professional achievements, Macleod was deeply involved in his community. Alongside his wife, Sandol Astrausky, he served as a director and teaching associate for Brown University's Old-Time String Band. The couple's shared passion for music extended into their personal lives, hosting annual summer music festivals on their 10-acre property in Hope Valley. Their story was one of love and collaboration, with Macleod learning guitar and banjo to play alongside his wife, blending personal and artistic harmony.
The Tragic Morning
On that fateful Saturday morning, Macleod was walking his dog along Route 128 when Shannon Godbout, 41, reportedly lost control of her vehicle. Police reports reveal that Godbout veered out of her lane, striking multiple objects, including two telephone poles, before hitting Macleod on the shoulder of the eastbound lane, as reported by the New York Post. The impact was so severe that one telephone pole was split, leaving debris scattered at the scene.
Emergency responders rushed Macleod to Rhode Island Hospital, but despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries. According to the New York Post, his dog survived the crash and ran home, a small mercy amid the tragedy.
The Driver's Troubling History
The driver, Shannon Godbout, was arrested at the scene. Police say they found her in posession of "numerous illegal narcotics and packaging materials commonly associated with drug distribution," as reported by PEOPLE. This was not her first brush with the law — Godbout has reportedly been arrested more than 100 times, with 82 court warrants and 40 traffic citations to her name. Many of her previous offenses involved substance abuse, and she had been ordered to attend counseling multiple times, most recently in April 2025.
Authorities charged Godbout with driving so as to endanger resulting in death and possession of narcotics with intent to distribute, marking her third or subsequent offense. The Hopkinton Police Department is reportedly working closely with the Rhode Island Attorney General's Office to present her as a probation violator, which could lead to additional charges.
Remembering Rory Macleod
Friends and fellow musicians remember Macleod not only for his musical talent but also for his warm personality. Doug James, a longtime friend and fellow musician, described Macleod as "always upbeat and cheerful," as reported by The Independent, someone who made every musical collaboration feel effortless and enjoyable. His ability to play multiple instruments with ease and his dedication to his craft left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
The band Roomful of Blues expressed their condolences, writing on Facebook, "Roomful of Blues would like to extend our deepest condolences to Rory Macleod’s family, friends and all of his fans. We would like to acknowledge his diverse musical contributions as well as being a wonderful and gentle soul. There are no words for such an immense loss. RIP, dear friend," as reported by PEOPLE.
A Moment to Reflect
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of how quickly life can change. A man who spent his life bringing joy through music was taken in a moment of unforeseen violence. For those who knew Rory Macleod, his legacy will live on through his music, his teaching, and the memories of a gentle soul who touched many lives.
As you reflect on this story, consider the fragility of everyday moments and the importance of community and compassion. Rory Macleod's life was a testament to the power of music and connection, and his sudden passing leaves a void that will be felt far beyond the streets of Hope Valley.
If you're a fan of music or simply someone who values the stories behind the headlines, Rory's story is a poignant reminder to cherish the people and moments that make life meaningful.
References: Grammy-Nominated Musician Rory Macleod Killed While Dog Walking | Grammy-nominated musician Roderick MacLeod killed by driver with more than 100 arrests | New York Post | Driver who killed Grammy-nominated musician walking his dogs had been arrested over 100 times
