Grandfather Succumbs to Injuries in Rhode Island Hockey Arena Mass Shooting
Gerald "Gerry" Dorgan, a 75-year-old grandfather, has tragically passed away from injuries sustained during a horrific mass shooting at a youth hockey game in Rhode Island, becoming the third victim of the deadly rampage. The incident occurred at the Dennis M. Lynch arena in Pawtucket last week, where Robert Dorgan, the transgender ex-husband of Gerry's daughter, opened fire specifically targeting family members.
Victims and Injuries in the Targeted Attack
Gerry Dorgan had been in critical condition since the shooting on February 16 before his death was confirmed by authorities on Wednesday. His daughter, Rhonda Dorgan, 52, and grandson, Aidan Dorgan, 23, were also killed in the attack. Additionally, Rhonda's mother, Linda Dorgan, and Thomas Geruso, a family friend and assistant principal at a local high school, were injured and remain in serious but stable condition.
Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien expressed profound sorrow, stating he was "heartbroken" over the loss of another life due to what he called a "senseless shooting." In an official statement, Grebien extended thoughts and prayers to the victim's family, friends, and all those affected by the tragedy.
Shooter's Background and Family Dynamics
Police identified the shooter as Robert Dorgan, who also used the names Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano. Authorities confirmed the attack was targeted, stemming from a family dispute. Notably, Robert Dorgan was Rhonda's first cousin, with US Census records revealing they shared the same last name before marriage due to their familial connection.
A close family friend paid tribute to Gerry Dorgan in a heartfelt Facebook post, describing him as "one tough son of a gun" and someone loved ones could "always count on." The friend, who had known Rhonda since kindergarten, referred to Gerry and his wife Linda as her "second parents growing up," highlighting his loyalty and humor.
Heroic Intervention and Shooter's Demise
During the chaos, three bystanders are credited with containing and disarming the shooter, a former bodybuilder and ex-Marine. Michael Black, one of these heroes, lunged at Robert Dorgan's handgun, jamming it with his left hand and attempting to subdue him. After a struggle involving other bystanders, Dorgan fell to the ground but managed to pull out a second gun, dying from a self-inflicted gunshot as he locked eyes with Black.
Black reported that Dorgan never uttered a word during the incident. The motive remains under investigation, though authorities emphasize it was a targeted act linked to family conflicts.
Family Insights and Mental Health Struggles
Amanda Wallace-Hubbard, Dorgan's daughter from another marriage who witnessed the shooting, clarified that his gender identity was not the cause of familial estrangement. Instead, she described her father as struggling with "demons" and having a "vendetta" against his family. She noted that despite efforts to help, Dorgan never sought the mental health assistance needed, refusing to acknowledge his issues.
Rhonda Dorgan had filed for divorce in 2020, initially citing "gender reassignment surgery, narcissistic and personality disorder traits," though this was later amended to "irreconcilable differences." The divorce was finalized in 2021.
Ominous Social Media Activity and Aftermath
In the days leading up to the shooting, Robert Dorgan posted disturbing content on social media, including a video of a woman loading ammunition and threats to go "BESERK." His pages also displayed extremist views, with him describing himself as "to the right of Hitler," showcasing a Nazi-inspired tattoo, and using anti-Asian slurs.
According to social media, Dorgan had six children from multiple relationships. His eldest son is currently serving a federal prison sentence for arson at a predominantly black church. Wallace-Hubbard has started a GoFundMe for her half-siblings, Ava and Colin Dorgan, who were orphaned by the murder-suicide.
The community continues to grapple with the aftermath of this devastating event, as investigations into the full circumstances of the shooting proceed.
