Shooter Kills 2, Injures 3 at Rhode Island Hockey Game

Authorities identify shooter as Robert Dorgan, who also went by Roberta Esposito, and say the attack was likely a targeted family dispute.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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A shooter opened fire during a youth hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, killing two people and injuring three others. The shooter, identified as Robert Dorgan, also known as Roberta Esposito, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities believe the shooting was a targeted event, possibly a family dispute.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has shaken the Rhode Island community, coming just two months after another deadly shooting at Brown University. It raises concerns about gun violence and safety at public events, especially those involving children and families.

The details

According to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, the shooter, Robert Dorgan, unleashed a flurry of bullets during the youth hockey game. The attack was cut short when a "good Samaritan" spectator intervened, bringing the incident "to a swift end." Authorities are still investigating what precipitated the shooting and whether any individuals were specifically targeted.

  • The shooting occurred on the afternoon of February 17, 2026.
  • Authorities spoke to nearly 100 witnesses as of Monday evening.

The players

Robert Dorgan

The shooter, who also went by the name Roberta Esposito, was born in 1969 and was an active employee at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, a shipbuilding facility in Bath, Maine.

Tina Goncalves

The Pawtucket Police Chief, who credited an unnamed "good Samaritan" spectator for intervening and bringing the attack to an end.

David Hench

A spokesperson for the General Dynamics Bath Iron Works shipyard, who provided information about Robert Dorgan's employment at the facility.

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What they’re saying

“It appears that this was a targeted event, that it may be a family dispute.”

— Tina Goncalves, Pawtucket Police Chief (abc11.com)

“Our state is grieving again. As governor, a parent, and a former coach, my heart breaks for the victims, families, students, and everyone impacted by the devastating shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket.”

— Dan McKee, Rhode Island Governor (abc11.com)

What’s next

Authorities are continuing to investigate the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting, including whether any individuals were specifically targeted.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges of gun violence and the need for increased safety measures at public events, especially those involving children and families. It also underscores the importance of community members being vigilant and willing to intervene to prevent further loss of life.