Gunfire Erupts During Senior Night at Pawtucket Arena
Two people were killed and three others were critically injured after a shooting broke out during a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, on Monday afternoon.
Police responded to reports of an active shooter at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena around 2:30 p.m., according to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves. When officers arrived, they found one victim dead inside the arena. A second victim later died at a local hospital. Both victims appear to be adults.
Authorities said the suspected gunman died from an apparent self inflicted gunshot wound at the scene. Investigators have not released the names of the victims, and the motive remains under review. However, Chief Goncalves described the incident as targeted. She said it appears to stem from a family dispute involving a family friend.
Suspect Identified as Robert Dorgan
Police identified the suspect as Robert Dorgan, who also used the first name Roberta and the last name Esposito. The mayor’s office confirmed that the suspect was 56 years old.
According to officials, the suspect entered the arena to watch a family member’s game. At some point during the event, the shooting began. As a result, panic quickly spread throughout the packed venue.
Three additional victims were rushed to the hospital with gunshot wounds. At last update, they were in critical condition and fighting for their lives.
Bystander Helped Bring Violence to an End
Chief Goncalves said a bystander stepped in and tried to subdue the shooter. Because of that quick action, the violence may have ended sooner than it otherwise would have. Officials credited the individual’s bravery with helping limit further harm.
Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien called the shooting a terrible tragedy. He said families had gathered to celebrate senior night and support student athletes. Instead, the day ended in heartbreak.
Chaos Captured on Livestream
The game was being livestreamed, and the incident was captured on video. Although the shooter is not visible in the wide angle footage, multiple gunshots can be heard.
At first, shots were spaced a few seconds apart. Then several more rang out in rapid succession. Spectators ran toward exits, and players on the bench ducked for cover. Students on the ice appeared confused before quickly leaving the rink once the gunfire continued.
The streaming platform later locked access to the footage.
Schools, Officials and Sports Teams Respond
School officials confirmed that all student athletes were safe. Coventry Public Schools Superintendent Don Cowart said every member of the Coventry hockey team was accounted for. Providence Country Day School and St. Raphael Academy also reported that their students were safe.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee said the state is grieving once again. He thanked first responders and hospital staff for their swift action. He also shared his prayers for the victims, families and communities affected.
The FBI’s Boston field office responded to assist local authorities. Meanwhile, several professional sports teams, including the Providence Bruins and the Boston Bruins, expressed condolences. The New England Patriots and the Boston Red Sox also shared messages of support.
Investigators recovered firearms at the scene. However, police have not disclosed details about the weapons. Chief Goncalves said there were no prior police interactions with the suspect. The investigation remains ongoing.
