Deadly Shooting at Rhode Island High School Hockey Game

Three killed, including suspected gunman, in attack during youth hockey match

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

A shooting at a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on Monday afternoon left three people dead, including the suspected gunman, and three others critically injured. The attack occurred during a scheduled co-op hockey match at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, with the shooter appearing to target members of his own family, according to police.

Why it matters

The shooting is the latest in a string of gun violence incidents at community spaces in Rhode Island, coming just two months after a deadly attack at Brown University. It underscores the vulnerability of public venues and the ongoing challenges of gun violence and mental health issues in the state.

The details

According to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, the shooting may have been domestic in nature, as the gunman appeared to have been going after members of his family. The shooter then turned the gun on himself. Three victims were taken to Rhode Island Hospital in critical condition, and one of the deceased victims died at the hospital.

  • The shooting occurred just before 3 p.m. on Monday, February 17, 2026.
  • The incident took place during a scheduled co-op high school hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena.

The players

Tina Goncalves

Pawtucket Police Chief who stated the shooting may have been domestic in nature.

Kash Patel

FBI Director who confirmed the agency was assisting in the investigation.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the shooter's family member out on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic shooting underscores the ongoing challenges of gun violence and mental health issues in Rhode Island, and the vulnerability of community spaces like high school sporting events. It comes just two months after a similar attack at Brown University, raising concerns about public safety and the need for comprehensive solutions to address these problems.