A high school hockey game at Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, turned tragic on February 16, 2026, when gunfire erupted during the event. Families and students had gathered expecting a routine afternoon of competition, but the situation quickly shifted into chaos. Authorities later confirmed that the incident stemmed from a family-related dispute and identified the individuals who lost their lives.
Police stated that 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, who also used the name Roberta Esposito, opened fire before dying from what investigators described as a self-inflicted injury. Officials confirmed that his former spouse, Rhonda Dorgan, died at the arena, and their adult son, Aidan Dorgan, later died at a local hospital. Several others sustained serious injuries, including family members and a family friend. Investigators reported interviewing numerous witnesses as they worked to piece together the sequence of events.
Public records indicate that the couple’s long-term marriage ended in divorce in 2020. Authorities have described the incident as targeted rather than random and have not released additional details about prior disputes. A relative who was present at the arena shared that a bystander attempted to intervene during the emergency, and officials acknowledged that swift action by individuals in the crowd may have helped prevent further harm.
The event has left surviving family members facing significant emotional and practical challenges. A teenage son who was participating in the game and his sister are now coping with the loss of close relatives. Community members have organized support efforts to assist the family during this difficult time. As Pawtucket continues to process the tragedy, local leaders have emphasized unity, compassion, and access to counseling resources for those affected.
