Pawtucket Ice Rink shooting: suspect identified as Robert Dorgan

PAWTUCKET: Authorities have identified Robert Dorgan, also known as Roberta Esposito, as the suspected shooter in a tragic incident at the Dennis M Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, that left two people dead and three others in critical condition.

The shooting occurred Monday afternoon during a boys’ high school hockey game between the Coventry/Johnston and Blackstone Valley Co-op teams. Witnesses described chaos as multiple gunshots rang out, prompting spectators and players to scramble for cover. Video footage from a live-streaming service captured approximately 13 shots in six seconds, followed by another shot 11 seconds later.

Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves confirmed that Dorgan appears to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police say the attack was “targeted” and likely the result of a family dispute, though they have not released the identities of the victims. A Good Samaritan reportedly intervened during the incident, helping to end the threat.

The shooting has prompted a wave of grief and solidarity in the hockey community. Across Rhode Island, players and fans are honoring the victims, and placing hockey sticks outside homes as a symbolic gesture of remembrance.

Local and federal agencies, including the FBI, Rhode Island State Police, and the ATF, responded to the scene. More than 100 witnesses have already been interviewed as the investigation continues. Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien described the city as “in mourning” and called for patience as authorities gather facts.

In response, the Rhode Island Interscholastic League has temporarily suspended all interscholastic games, and mental health resources are being deployed to support students, families, and staff affected by the tragedy.

Governor Dan McKee expressed heartbreak over the incident, accentuating on the mental health resources and community support for those impacted. Local sports organisations, including the Boston Bruins, Boston Red Sox, and New England Patriots, released statements expressing sorrow and solidarity with the Pawtucket community.

The Dennis M Lynch Arena, which serves both high school and collegiate hockey programs, will remain closed while the investigation unfolds. Police continue to urge anyone with relevant information or footage to come forward to assist in the ongoing inquiry.