Death of man found in ‘puddle of blood’ ruled a homicide

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Police have ruled the death of a man found in a parking lot in Providence a homicide.

Police identified the 25-year-old Providence man as Luis Padilla. His body was discovered Monday morning by a police officer.

Authorities declined to say how Padilla died saying that releasing that detail could hinder their investigation. Police haven’t named any suspects.

Police say an officer saw a “puddle of blood” before finding the body. Investigators wouldn’t elaborate on when the man died, but said it was recent.

Chief Hugh Clements tells reporters that they see activity on the street “heat up” as the weather gets warmer.

The slaying is the city’s sixth this year.