Recap: 2 victims, suspect dead, 3 others injured in mass shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket

by Entering Pawtucket | Tuesday, February 17, 2026

PAWTUCKET, R.I. — A shooting during a high school hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena left three people dead and three others critically injured Monday afternoon, authorities said.

Police responded to reports of gunfire at the city-owned rink on Andrew D. Ferland Way shortly before 2:30 p.m. Officers arrived within minutes and secured the building, according to the Pawtucket Police Department.

Officials said the suspected shooter died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police said officers did not fire their weapons.

Police Chief Tina Goncalves identified the shooter as Robert Dorgan, also known as Roberta Esposito. Investigators said the shooting stemmed from what they described as a targeted family dispute and was not a random act of violence.

Authorities said one of those killed was the shooter’s son. Other victims included close family members. Three people were hospitalized in critical condition as of Tuesday. Family IDs, mother, son killed in shooting

The shooting occurred during a boys high school hockey game involving co-op teams from several Rhode Island communities. Officials said none of the student-athletes on the ice were physically injured, though many witnessed the chaos. Video from a livestream of the game captured spectators fleeing as shots rang out.

Police credited a bystander with helping intervene during the incident, though authorities have not released additional details.

Gov. Dan McKee called the shooting a “devastating tragedy” and offered condolences to the victims’ families. U.S. Sen. Jack Reed thanked first responders and said the state must continue working to ensure safety at community events.

The Rhode Island Interscholastic League announced it was temporarily suspending games as a precaution and to allow schools time to support students and families.

Authorities established a family assistance center and said the investigation remains ongoing. Officials asked anyone with video or information about the shooting to contact police.

The arena remained closed Tuesday as the community grappled with the aftermath of one of the deadliest acts of violence in Pawtucket in recent years.

Police responded to a deadly shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026.