Authorities have identified the victim in a homicide investigation at the Harbor Base Inn, formerly known as the Pineapple Inn, after a man was found dead inside a hotel room earlier this week.
According to the Rhode Island State Medical Examiner’s Office, the deceased has been identified as 85-year-old Terry Costello. Officials confirmed that Costello’s death has been ruled a homicide.
The investigation began on Monday, May 18, 2026, when the Newport Police Department received a report involving a 66-year-old male who had reportedly jumped from the Mount Hope Bridge. In connection with that report, officers were later dispatched at approximately 10:10 a.m. to the Harbor Base Inn located at 372 Connell Highway in Newport.
Upon arrival, responding officers conducted a follow-up investigation and discovered a deceased male inside Room 132 of the property. Authorities later confirmed the victim was Terry Costello.
The Rhode Island State Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Costello had suffered injuries consistent with homicide, prompting a formal criminal investigation.
Newport Police have not released additional details regarding a suspect or motive at this time. Investigators continue to gather evidence and conduct interviews as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding the death.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to contact the Newport Police Department as the investigation remains active and ongoing.
This is a developing case, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
