East Providence Scholar, 92, Killed in Parking Lot Collision
EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Gordon S. Wood, a renowned historian, died after being struck by a vehicle in a Shaw's parking lot on Taunton Avenue on Sunday.
According to police, the 92-year-old scholar was taken to Rhode Island Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. No charges have been filed against the driver, and the crash remains under investigation.
Wood was a professor emeritus at Brown University, known for his influential works on American history, including “The Creation of the American Republic” and “The Radicalism of the American Revolution.” His scholarship earned him accolades, including the National Humanities Medal from President Barack Obama in 2011.
Though highly respected, Wood faced criticism from some modern scholars who argued that his analyses often overlooked the experiences of marginalized groups. In his writings, he emphasized the complexities of the nation's founding while confronting contemporary interpretations of historical events.
Witnesses reported emergency responders arrived promptly at the scene, but Wood succumbed to his injuries shortly after.
Further details about the incident will be provided as the investigation continues.