In a poignant display of resilience, high school senior hockey player Colin Dorgan scored a game-winning goal in double overtime on Wednesday, nearly a month after losing three family members in a targeted shooting at a Rhode Island ice rink. His goal propelled the Blackstone Valley Co-op team out of the semifinals, marking a bittersweet victory amidst profound personal loss.
A Heartbreaking Incident
On February 16, during a hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Colin Dorgan was on the ice with his teammates when a shooter opened fire in the stands. The attack claimed the lives of his mother, Rhonda Dorgan, and his brother, Aidan Dorgan, at the scene. A third victim, his grandfather Gerald Dorgan, later succumbed to his injuries. Two others, including Rhonda Dorgan's mother, Linda Dorgan, and a family friend, Thomas Geruso, were severely wounded.
Shooter Identified and Contained
Authorities identified the shooter as Robert Dorgan, who also used the aliases Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano. Police reported that Robert Dorgan died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after the incident. Law enforcement has praised several bystanders who intervened during the chaos, containing the shooter in the stands as the crowd fled, which likely prevented further casualties.
Return to the Ice
In the wake of the tragedy, all Rhode Island high school sports were postponed for a week. The Blackstone Valley team returned to the ice earlier this month for the first time since the fatal attack, with players honoring the victims by wearing jerseys stitched with hearts and the initials of Rhonda, Aidan, and Gerald Dorgan.
A Moment of Triumph
After securing a playoff victory on March 7, Blackstone Valley faced off against Portsmouth on Wednesday. The game culminated in a dramatic 3-2 win, with Colin Dorgan scoring on a breakaway in double overtime to seal the victory. Reflecting on the emotional moment, Dorgan told WPRI-TV, "It was the greatest moment of my life." His performance not only advanced the team but also served as a tribute to his lost family members.
Community and Aftermath
Officials have stated that the shooter was specifically targeting family members, adding a layer of horror to the incident. The community has rallied around the Dorgan family and the team, with the jersey patches symbolizing solidarity and remembrance. As the investigation continues, this story highlights themes of courage and perseverance in the face of unimaginable adversity.
