A tragic shooting unfolded Monday afternoon during a high school hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, leaving two people dead and three others critically injured, authorities said. The suspected shooter, identified as 56-year-old Robert K. Dorgan, also died at the scene from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, police confirmed.
The incident occurred shortly before 2:30 p.m. local time during a boys’ high school hockey match between cooperative teams from Coventry/Johnston and Blackstone Valley Schools. Dozens of family members, friends and spectators were in attendance as shots rang out inside the arena.
According to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, the shooting appears to have been a targeted act connected to a family dispute, though the investigation is ongoing and details remain limited. Police said the suspect was at the game to watch a family member play when the attack happened.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes inside the arena as gunfire erupted, with many players and fans scrambling for cover. Some athletes fled onto the ice or barricaded themselves in locker rooms to escape the violence, while others sought exits and safety.
Two individuals died as a result of the shooting—one at the scene and another later at a hospital. Three additional victims were hospitalized in critical condition. Authorities have not publicly released the names of the victims, pending family notifications.
Investigators said multiple firearms were recovered from the site, and law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), responded to support the investigation. Police interviewed numerous witnesses and are reviewing footage captured during the event to piece together a timeline of what occurred.
Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien said the city is in mourning after the devastating incident, which interrupted what had been a community celebration during the hockey game. Officials emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to public safety but urged residents to allow the investigative process to continue.
Local school administrators confirmed that all students participating in the game were accounted for and safe, although many families and community members remain shaken by the events of the afternoon.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, state and local leaders have expressed condolences to the victims, their families and all those affected. Resources and support services are being mobilized to help individuals cope with the emotional impact of the tragedy.
