by PAWTUCKET, R.I. — A youth hockey senior night turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy Monday afternoon when a gunman opened fire inside a packed arena, killing his ex-wife and adult son before taking his own life, authorities said.
Police identified the shooter as Robert Dorgan, 56, who authorities said also went by the names Roberta and Esposito. According to the Pawtucket Police Department, Dorgan carried out the shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena while his other son was on the ice participating in a youth hockey game.
Police Chief Tina Goncalves said the violence erupted around 2:30 p.m., shattering what had been expected to be a celebratory evening for players and families.
“It was their senior night, and there was no expectations or any indication that there was going to be any type of violence,” Goncalves said at a Tuesday news conference.
Victims Identified
Authorities confirmed that Rhonda Dorgan, the suspect’s ex-wife, was pronounced dead at the scene. Their adult son, Aidan Dorgan, was transported to a hospital but later died from his injuries.
Three additional people — Rhonda Dorgan’s mother and father, along with a family friend — were shot and wounded. As of Tuesday, they remained in critical condition, police said.
Officials have not released further details about the victims’ injuries or their current medical status beyond confirming they are receiving hospital care.
Bystanders Intervened as Chaos Unfolded
Video from the arena shows players ducking behind benches and scrambling for safety as gunfire echoed through the rink. Parents and spectators rushed toward exits while others shielded children.
Police said at least three bystanders confronted the shooter during the incident.
“At that time, the suspect did reach for a second firearm, and he did inflict a self-inflicted gunshot wound, which is what he succumbed to on scene,” Goncalves said.
Authorities credited the quick actions of civilians with preventing further bloodshed.
Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien praised those who stepped in.
“Their courage undoubtedly prevented further loss and injury,” the mayor said, noting they placed themselves in harm’s way.
Investigation Continues
The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation. Chief Goncalves said the suspect had previously attended his son’s hockey games, and there were no prior indications of violence connected to the event.
Investigators are reviewing multiple pieces of evidence, including:
- Livestream footage of the hockey game
- Cellphone videos recorded by parents in attendance
- Surveillance and other digital evidence
Police are also executing search warrants and continuing interviews as they piece together a timeline of events.
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Authorities have urged anyone who recorded video or has relevant information to contact the Pawtucket Police Department.
Community in Shock
The shooting has deeply shaken the Pawtucket community and the broader Rhode Island youth sports network. The arena, typically filled with cheering families and student-athletes, became the site of unimaginable violence.
In a statement, the Dorgan family expressed grief over the tragedy.
“We are all deeply and profoundly affected by the recent events that took place at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena,” the family said. “We are reminded that behind every headline is a family experiencing profound pain and loss.”
Officials emphasized that counseling resources are being made available for students, families and others affected by the traumatic incident.
As investigators work to determine what led to the deadly shooting, the focus remains on supporting survivors and preventing future tragedies in community spaces meant to bring families together.
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