Deadly Shooting During Hockey Game at Rhode Island Arena

Police say the incident appeared to be a 'family dispute'

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A deadly shooting occurred during a high school hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on Monday afternoon. According to the acting Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, three people were killed and three others were hospitalized with serious gunshot injuries. The police believe the shooting was a targeted event stemming from a family dispute.

Why it matters

Shootings at public events like high school sports games are extremely rare and concerning incidents that raise questions about public safety, security measures, and the underlying causes of such violence.

The details

The shooting occurred around 2:30 pm while two high school hockey teams, Coventry-Johnston and Blackstone Valley, were on the ice. Police found the gunman and one victim dead at the scene, while a second victim later died at the hospital. The other three injured victims were taken to local hospitals with serious gunshot wounds. The arena was quickly evacuated and a reunification center was set up at a nearby Walgreens for players and families.

  • The shooting occurred around 2:30 pm on Monday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Tina Goncalves

The acting Pawtucket Police Chief who confirmed details about the shooting.

Dan McKee

The Governor of Rhode Island who said state leaders are monitoring the situation.

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What they’re saying

“This seems like it was a targeted event. It may have been a family dispute. But we are still investigating.”

— Tina Goncalves, Acting Pawtucket Police Chief (boston25news.com)

“The Coventry School District confirms that all students from the Boys Hockey team who were present during a reported incident at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, RI have been accounted for and are safe.”

— Coventry School District (boston25news.com)

What’s next

The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing as police work to determine the full details and motive behind the incident.

The takeaway

This tragic shooting at a high school hockey game is a stark reminder of the need for improved security measures and community-based solutions to address the root causes of violence, in order to ensure the safety of students, families, and the public at large during sporting and community events.