Rhode Island Interscholastic League Suspended After Fatal Shooting at Hockey Arena
The Rhode Island Interscholastic League has been suspended indefinitely in the wake of a devastating shooting incident that occurred at a hockey game on Monday. The tragic event unfolded at the Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, located just a few miles outside Providence, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries.
Details of the Shooting Incident
According to official reports, the shooter was identified as Robert Dorgan, a 56-year-old individual who also went by the name Roberta Esposito. Dorgan opened fire during the game, killing his ex-wife Rhonda Dorgan, aged 52, and their son Aidan Dorgan, aged 23. In a horrifying conclusion to the rampage, Dorgan then turned the gun on himself, committing suicide at the scene.
Video footage from the arena captured the chilling moments as hockey players were seen ducking for cover on the sidelines when the shooting began. Among the witnesses was Colin Dorgan, Rhonda's 17-year-old son, who watched the tragedy unfold from the ice.
Injuries and Community Response
The violence did not end with the fatalities. Aidan's grandparents were among those injured in the attack and are currently in critical condition, fighting for their lives. This information was revealed through a GoFundMe page established by Rhonda's stepdaughter, Amanda Wallace-Hubbard, to support the affected families.
In response to the incident, Michael Lunney, the executive director of The Rhode Island Interscholastic League, issued a statement on Tuesday. He announced that all games are being postponed out of respect for those impacted by what he described as a 'senseless act of violence.'
Lunney expressed, 'Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this horrific event.'He further detailed that the league is actively collaborating with member schools and has been in contact with the Governor's Office, the Rhode Island Department of Education, and other community leaders to provide necessary aid and support during this difficult time.
Ongoing Developments and Impact
The suspension of the league's activities underscores the profound impact of this tragedy on the local community and the broader interscholastic sports network in Rhode Island. As investigations continue, authorities are working to understand the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.
This incident has raised concerns about safety at public sporting events and has prompted discussions on how to better protect participants and spectators in the future. The community remains in mourning, with many expressing shock and grief over the loss of life and the injuries sustained.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available from law enforcement and league officials.
