A gunman opened fire at an ice rink in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, on Monday, killing his ex-wife and adult son before fatally shooting himself, police have confirmed. The attack occurred during a high school hockey game at the Dennis M Lynch Arena, leaving three others in critical condition.
The suspect, identified as 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves. The deceased victims were named as Rhonda Dorgan and Aidan Dorgan. The injured include Rhonda Dorgan's parents, Linda and Gerald Dorgan, and family friend Thomas Geruso, all of whom remain in critical condition.
Police said the shooting appeared to be a targeted attack on family members. The incident unfolded at around 2.30pm, with witnesses reporting a series of about a dozen shots. A live stream of the game reportedly captured the sound of gunfire, though the video has since been removed.
Chief Goncalves praised at least three bystanders who intervened during the shooting, helping to subdue the suspect and contain him in the stands. Despite their efforts, Dorgan was able to reach a second firearm and kill himself. 'The police were not involved' in the suspect's death, Goncalves confirmed.
Player Olin Lawrence, who was on the ice at the time, described hearing 'bop, bop' sounds, initially thinking they were balloons. He and his teammates took refuge in the locker room. The Rhode Island Interscholastic League suspended all games following the incident.
Governor Dan McKee expressed devastation over the shooting, offering mental health resources. Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien described the city as being in mourning, noting that what should have been a joyful Senior Night event was instead marked by violence and fear.
