Three Dead in Targeted Shooting at Rhode Island Ice Rink During Youth Hockey Game
A tragic shooting at an ice rink in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, has resulted in three fatalities and left three others in critical condition. The incident occurred at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena on Monday afternoon, where a youth hockey game was scheduled to take place.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The shooting took place at approximately 2:30 PM local time on Monday. According to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, the suspect, identified as Robert Dorgan, also known as Roberta Esposito, is among the three individuals who died. Authorities believe the attack was targeted, stemming from a family dispute.
Chief Goncalves stated that Dorgan died from a potentially self-inflicted gunshot wound. The two other victims, both adults, were shot dead—one inside the arena and the other at a hospital. Three additional people sustained gunshot injuries and are currently in critical condition at local hospitals.
Scene at the Arena
Witnesses reported hearing popping sounds, prompting players and fans to race for cover. Unverified footage on social media captured the chaotic moments as people sought safety. After the shooting, tearful families and high school hockey players, still in uniform, were seen hugging outside the arena while police cordoned off the area.
Several people were inside the arena at the time of the shooting, which was being live-streamed during the hockey game. The teams involved were the Coventry-Johnston co-op and the St Raphael-Providence Country Day-North Providence-North Smithfield co-op, according to local reports.
Community Response and Safety Updates
In the aftermath, school officials confirmed the safety of students involved. Coventry Public Schools of Rhode Island superintendent Don Cowart reported that all members of the Coventry hockey team were safe and accounted for. Similar statements were issued by officials from Johnston Public Schools, North Smithfield, North Providence, Providence Day, and St Raphael Academy.
This incident follows a previous shooting in nearby Providence just two months ago, where a gunman killed three people at Brown University before taking his own life, highlighting ongoing concerns about gun violence in the region.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the full circumstances surrounding this targeted attack at the ice rink.
