Two people were killed and three others were critically injured when a gunman opened fire during a high school hockey game Monday afternoon at Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, authorities said.
Officers responded to reports of an active shooter around 2:30 p.m., according to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves. One victim was found dead inside the arena, and another later died at a hospital. Both victims appear to be adults. Three additional people were transported to hospitals in critical condition with gunshot wounds.
The suspected shooter was found dead at the scene from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Authorities Say Shooting Appears Targeted
Police identified the suspect as Robert Dorgan, 56, who Goncalves said also went by the first name Roberta and the last name Esposito. Officials described the shooting as a targeted incident, possibly stemming from a family dispute involving a family friend.
“It appears that a lone individual entered the arena to watch the hockey game of a family member,” Goncalves said during a news conference. “Unfortunately, during that time, a shooting occurred.”
A bystander who attempted to subdue the gunman may have prevented further casualties, according to Goncalves, who described the individual as a “good Samaritan” whose actions likely led to a swift end to the violence.
Firearms were recovered at the scene, though police did not specify how many or what types.
Community in Shock as Investigation Continues
The shooting took place during “senior night” for Blackstone Valley Schools, with teams from Coventry-Johnston and St. Raphael-Providence Country Day-North Providence-North Smithfield co-ops playing. School officials later confirmed that all student athletes from their respective teams were safe and accounted for.
Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien called the incident a “terrible tragedy,” noting that families had gathered to celebrate students before the violence erupted. Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee said the state was grieving and expressed condolences to the victims and their families.
The game was being livestreamed, and while the gunfire was audible in verified footage, the shooting itself was not visible on the wide camera angle. The platform that streamed the game has since locked access to the video.
The FBI’s Boston field office is assisting in the investigation. FBI Director Kash Patel said the bureau is providing support and urged prayers for the victims and their families.
Authorities said they are continuing to investigate the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting.
