Trans Shooter Killed Family at Hockey Game

Robert Dorgan, who went by Roberta, had a history of odd behavior at his Maine shipyard job before the tragic attack.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A 56-year-old transgender employee at a Maine shipyard, Robert Dorgan, who went by the name Roberta, shocked co-workers by showing up to work in inappropriate clothing like miniskirts and high heels. Dorgan was known for being short-tempered and an 'odd bird.' On Monday, he gunned down his ex-wife and 23-year-old son at a Rhode Island high school hockey game, also injuring his former in-laws. Authorities are still investigating the exact motive behind the tragic attack.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex challenges that can arise when mental health issues, family dynamics, and gender identity intersect. It raises questions about workplace policies, community support systems, and the need for greater understanding and resources around these sensitive topics.

The details

Dorgan was employed as an electric cable puller at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. Co-workers described him as 'short-tempered' and an 'odd bird' who would show up to the shipyard in inappropriate clothing like short skirts and dresses, with one colleague asking 'How the hell could you wear high heels in a shipyard?' Despite his odd behavior, Dorgan had only recently shown off photos of his ex-wife and kids at the shipyard, referring to his ex as 'my princess' and giving no indication they were divorced.

  • On Monday afternoon, Dorgan gunned down his ex-wife Rhonda and 23-year-old son Aidan at a Rhode Island high school hockey game.
  • Dorgan underwent gender reassignment surgery in 2020.

The players

Robert Dorgan

A 56-year-old transgender employee at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Maine, who went by the name Roberta and was known for his odd behavior at work, including wearing inappropriate clothing like miniskirts and high heels.

Rhonda

Dorgan's ex-wife, who he murdered at a Rhode Island high school hockey game.

Aidan

Dorgan's 23-year-old son, who he also murdered at the hockey game.

General Dynamics Bath Iron Works

The Maine shipyard where Dorgan was employed as an electric cable puller.

Ryan Fisher

A co-worker of Dorgan's at the shipyard for seven years.

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What’s next

Authorities are still investigating the exact motive behind Dorgan's attack on his family.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the complex intersection of mental health, family dynamics, and gender identity, and the need for greater understanding, resources, and support systems to address these sensitive issues in the workplace and community.