Full Breakdown
Tragic Shooting at Rhode Island Ice Rink Claims Three Lives
2/28/2026, 9:43:21 PM
Overview of the Incident
On February 16, 2026, a shooting occurred during a youth hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, resulting in the deaths of three family members and injuries to three others. The shooter, identified as Robert Dorgan, 56, opened fire on his ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, their adult son, Aidan Dorgan, and other family members. Following the attack, Dorgan died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Details of the Shooting
The chaotic scene was captured on police body camera footage, which showed officers rushing into the arena as bystanders attempted to assist the victims. Witnesses reported that Dorgan specifically targeted his family during the shooting. Rhonda and Aidan Dorgan were pronounced dead at the scene, while Gerald Dorgan, Rhonda's father, succumbed to his injuries days later. Linda Dorgan, Rhonda's mother, and family friend Thomas Geruso were also injured in the attack.
Background and Context
Robert Dorgan, who also went by the names Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano, had a documented history of familial conflict, particularly related to his gender transition. Court records indicated that disputes over his transition had strained relationships within the family. In 2020, Dorgan reported threats from his father-in-law and alleged that he faced hostility due to his gender identity. The couple had divorced in 2021, but they continued to attend their children's hockey games together.
Eyewitness Accounts and Intervention
Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic as shots rang out, with players and spectators scrambling for safety. Several bystanders intervened, managing to contain Dorgan before he could inflict further harm. Law enforcement praised these "good Samaritans" for their quick actions, which helped to prevent additional casualties.
Official Statements
Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien expressed his heartbreak over the incident, stating, "Our thoughts and prayers remain with the victim’s family, friends, and all those impacted by this tragic act of violence." The Pawtucket Police Chief, Tina Goncalves, characterized the shooting as a "family dispute," but no clear motive has been established.
Criticism and Opposition
Amanda Wallace-Hubbard, Dorgan's daughter from a previous relationship, described the shooting as a targeted attack, asserting that it stemmed from a personal vendetta against the family. She emphasized that the violence was not random, highlighting the long-standing conflicts within the family.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While most reports agree on the identities of the victims and the shooter, there is some discrepancy regarding the exact timeline of events and the number of shots fired. Additionally, the investigation into the motive remains ongoing, with no definitive conclusions drawn about the underlying causes of the violence.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are heartbroken to learn that another life has been lost as a result of last Monday’s senseless shooting at Lynch Arena,” — Donald Grebien, Mayor of Pawtucket
- “I just want to make sure people understand this was one person’s vendetta against their family,” — Amanda Wallace-Hubbard, Daughter of Robert Dorgan
The tragic events at the Rhode Island ice rink have left a community in mourning and raised questions about the impact of familial disputes on violence.
