Shooting at Rhode Island Ice Rink Leaves One Dead, Multiple Injured

The suspected shooter also died during the incident at Dennis M Lynch Arena in Pawtucket.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A mass shooting at an indoor ice rink in Pawtucket, Rhode Island has left one person dead and four others injured. The suspected shooter also died during the incident at the Dennis M Lynch Arena. The shooting occurred during a high school hockey game between two local co-op teams.

Why it matters

Gun violence at public events like high school sports games raises serious concerns about public safety and security measures at community facilities. This tragic incident will likely prompt discussions about improving safety protocols and response plans for similar situations in the future.

The details

According to local reports, the shooting occurred on Monday afternoon during a hockey game between the Coventry-Johnston and St. Raphael-Providence Country Day-North Providence-North Smithfield co-op teams. One person died at the scene, and four others were rushed to the hospital. The suspected shooter also died during the incident, though authorities say they are not searching for any other suspects.

  • The shooting occurred on Monday, February 16, 2026 during a high school hockey game.

The players

Coventry-Johnston

A local high school co-op hockey team that was playing at the time of the shooting.

St. Raphael-Providence Country Day-North Providence-North Smithfield

A local high school co-op hockey team that was playing at the time of the shooting.

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What they’re saying

“We have been informed that students are secured in multiple locations. At this time, we are still working to confirm the status and location of all individuals.”

— Don Cowart, Superintendent, Coventry School District (WJAR)

“We have confirmed that our Johnston High School student-athlete who was participating in the game is safe. We are also aware of another Johnston student who was in attendance, and that student is safe as well.”

— Johnston Public Schools (WJAR)

What’s next

Authorities are continuing to investigate the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting. The mayor's office has stated that no other suspects are being sought.

The takeaway

This tragic incident at a high school sporting event highlights the need for enhanced safety measures and emergency response protocols at community facilities to protect the public from gun violence. Local officials and community leaders will likely work to address these concerns and implement new policies to prevent similar tragedies in the future.