Rhode Island Ice Rink Shooting: Victims, Suspect, and Aftermath

A shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, on February 16, 2026, left three people dead and two injured. The shooter, identified as Robert Dorgan, 56, targeted family members during a youth hockey game before dying by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Victims

Robert Dorgan fatally shot his ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, and their adult son, Aidan Dorgan, at the ice rink. Gerald Dorgan, Rhonda Dorgan’s father, died days later from his injuries according to police. Linda Dorgan, Rhonda Dorgan’s mother, and Thomas Geruso, a family friend, were also wounded in the attack.

The Shooter

Robert Dorgan, who also used the names Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound as reported by the Associated Press. Bystanders were able to contain the shooter in the middle of the stands as the crowd fled, and at least three people intervened to stop the attack according to Fox News.

The Aftermath and Investigation

Police released body camera footage showing the chaotic scene following the shooting, with bystanders and law enforcement rushing to help victims and determine the shooter’s location as detailed in a report by the Associated Press. The Pawtucket Police Department released the 21-minute video, which has been largely blurred to protect privacy.

Community Response

Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien expressed his heartbreak over the loss of another life due to the shooting, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers remain with the victim’s family, friends, and all those impacted by this tragic act of violence” as reported by Fox News.