Police officers secured the area outside Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, on February 16, 2026, after a shooting took place inside the venue earlier that day. Authorities set up a perimeter around the arena as they began their investigation. Getty Images
A youth hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, turned into a scene of chaos Monday afternoon after gunfire rang out inside a crowded ice arena. Police confirmed that two people died and three others suffered serious injuries in the shooting.
Officers identified the suspected shooter as Robert K. Dorgan, who went by the name Roberta Esposito. Police said the suspect died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after opening fire. Investigators continue to examine the events leading up to the incident.
Shooting During Live Game
The violence broke out during a high school hockey game at the Lynch Arena. Video footage from a sports streaming service showed players scrambling for safety as shots echoed through the rink. Several athletes jumped over the boards and rushed toward the locker room to escape danger.
Witnesses described panic in the stands as families tried to shield their children. At least one bystander attempted to stop the shooter. Rhode Island Senator Jack Reed said on social media that the person tried to disarm the suspect.
Police Chief Tina Goncalves credited the individual’s quick action for helping bring the situation to an end. She said the effort likely “led to a swift end of this tragic event.”
Victims and Medical Response
Emergency crews rushed three injured people to Rhode Island Hospital. Doctors are treating them for gunshot wounds, and hospital officials confirmed they remain in critical condition.
Authorities said students playing in the game did not suffer injuries. School officials from North Providence, Coventry and Saint Raphael Academy confirmed that all their students are safe and accounted for.
Superintendent Joseph B. Goho said, “Fortunately, all students involved in the game are safe.” Earlier reports suggested the incident may have involved parents of students attending the game.
Investigation Underway
Police responded to the arena around 2:30 p.m. Monday. Investigators are now working to piece together a detailed timeline of what happened before officers arrived.
Federal agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives joined local and state police in the investigation. Rhode Island State Police and Providence Police also provided support at the scene.
The shooting marked the 41st mass shooting in the United States within the first 47 days of the year, according to national tracking data.
Community Reaction
Leaders across Rhode Island expressed shock and sorrow. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley wrote, “This kind of violence, especially in a place meant for families and youth, is devastating.”
Representative Gabe Amo said, “an ice arena should be a safe place for kids and families to come together. It’s horrible that the memory of these teams’ high school hockey Senior Night, with families from across Rhode Island, will be a tragedy.”
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse described the event as “more unnecessary horror for kids.” Senator Reed added, “children and families should be safe at a youth sporting event, not subject to gun violence.”
Governor Dan McKee also shared his thoughts, saying, “I am praying for Pawtucket and everyone involved.”
A Troubling Pattern
The shooting comes just two months after another deadly attack at Brown University in nearby Providence, where two students lost their lives and nine others suffered injuries.
For many in the community, Monday’s tragedy has deepened concerns about safety in public spaces once considered secure gathering spots.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting as families mourn and the community seeks answers.
