Shooter sentenced to life in prison for 2022 Newport Bar murder

A Tiverton man will spend the rest of his life behind bars after pleading guilty to the 2022 murder of 25-year-old Yordi Arevalo at a Newport bar.

Shamik Steele, 33, was sentenced Monday in Newport County Superior Court to life in prison plus five years for second-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder and aggravated assault.

“This defendant was previously convicted of a violent crime and was barred from possessing or operating a firearm,” said Attorney General Peter F. Neronha. “The chance of a relapse is too high. This tragic case underscores the importance of enforcing common-sense gun laws.”

Steele shot Arevalo on February 14, 2022, at the Friendly Sons of Newport bar. According to prosecutors, Steele and two friends initially left the bar after drinking, but returned a few minutes later. Steele entered and opened fire, striking Arevalo four times before fleeing on foot.

Newport police identified Steele through bar surveillance footage and witness statements, including a key description of Steele’s neck tattoo depicting the face of Jesus Christ.

“This is the result when firearms are in the hands of those who are ready and willing to use them for violence,” Newport Police Chief Ryan Duffy said, praising his department and prosecutors for the conviction.

Steele’s previous criminal record, which legally prohibited him from owning a gun, was a key factor highlighted by Neronha as he called for further enforcement of gun laws.

For Arevalo’s grieving family, the sentencing could provide some closure. “I hope this sentence provides some comfort,” Neronha said.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Eric Batista and Detective Stephen Carrig.

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