Shooting at Rhode Island Hockey Game Claimed Two Lives in Apparent Family Dispute
Pawtucket, RI – A shooting at a youth hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on Monday resulted in the deaths of two people and injuries to three others, authorities said Tuesday. Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves identified the shooter as Robert Dorgan, who also went by Roberta Esposito, and stated the victims were Dorgan’s ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, and their adult son, Aidan Dorgan. The shooter died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Chief Goncalves credited a “decent Samaritan” with intervening and bringing the attack to a swift end, and stated that at least three bystanders were able to contain Dorgan. Investigators are still piecing together the events that unfolded at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, and have interviewed nearly 100 witnesses. Authorities believe the shooting was a targeted event, potentially stemming from a family dispute. Dorgan was an employee at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works.
Youth Hockey Game Tragedy: Shooter Targeted Family in Pawtucket Ice Rink Attack
Pawtucket, Rhode Island – A shocking act of violence unfolded at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena on Monday afternoon, leaving a community reeling and raising hard questions about safety at sporting events. Investigations have revealed the shooter specifically targeted family members, claiming the lives of his ex-wife and son.
Details Emerge: A Targeted Attack with a Troubled Past
Police have identified the shooter as 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, who also went by Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano. The victims have been identified as Rhonda Dorgan, the shooter’s ex-wife, and Aidan Dorgan, their adult son. Three others sustained injuries, including the parents of the shooter’s ex-wife and a family friend.
Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves confirmed that Dorgan died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators had interviewed nearly 100 witnesses as of Monday evening, working to understand the events leading up to the tragedy.
Did you know? A “good Samaritan” intervened during the shooting, bringing the attack to a swift complete, according to Chief Goncalves. At least three bystanders were able to contain Dorgan before the self-inflicted gunshot.
A History of Conflict and Online Activity
Court filings suggest a complex history between Robert and Rhonda Dorgan. Rhonda Dorgan initially cited “gender reassignment surgery, narcissistic + personality disorder traits” as reasons for filing for divorce in 2020 after nearly 30 years of marriage, but later amended the filing to “irreconcilable differences.”
Adding another layer to the story, authorities discovered that Dorgan, under the name Roberta Dorgano, responded to anti-transgender posts by Alex Jones and Kevin Sorbo the day before the shooting. The post stated that constant criticism of transgender people is “why we Proceed BERSERK.”
The Impact on the Hockey Community and Beyond
The shooting occurred during a game featuring students from several Rhode Island high schools, including a Senior Night event for the Blackstone Valley Schools co-operative boys hockey team. The arena was filled with players, parents, and fans when the violence erupted.
Michael Steven, who recorded video after the shooting, described a scene of chaos and heartbreak, with parents searching for their children and injured individuals being transported from the arena.
Pro Tip: Sports organizations should review and enhance security protocols, including bag checks, metal detectors, and increased security personnel, to create a safer environment for athletes and spectators.
Dorgan’s Employment and Military Service
Robert Dorgan was employed by General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, a shipbuilding facility in Maine. Details regarding Dorgan’s role and tenure at the shipyard have not been released.
Dorgan briefly served in the Marine Corps, enlisting in April 1988 but receiving a separation less than three months later with the lowest military rank.
Recent Similar Incidents and the Growing Concern
This tragedy comes less than two months after a shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island, which left two students dead and nine others wounded. These incidents highlight a disturbing trend of violence impacting educational and athletic institutions.
FAQ
Q: What motivated the shooting at the Pawtucket ice rink?
A: The shooting appears to have been a targeted attack stemming from a family dispute, with the shooter specifically targeting his ex-wife and son.
Q: Was security present at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena?
A: Details regarding security measures at the arena have not been released. However, this incident is likely to prompt a review of security protocols at similar facilities.
Q: What is being done to support the victims and their families?
A: Authorities are providing support to the victims and their families. The Pawtucket community is also rallying to offer assistance and condolences.
What are your thoughts on this tragic event? Share your comments below and let’s discuss how we can create safer environments for our athletes and communities.