Shooting at Rhode Island Hockey Game Leaves 3 Dead, Suspect Identified

The incident occurred during a youth hockey match at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A shooting at a Rhode Island high school hockey game on Monday, February 16, 2026, left three people dead, including the shooter, and three others critically injured. The suspect has been identified as Robert Dorgan, 56, who also went by Roberta Esposito. The shooting appeared to be targeted and stemmed from a family dispute, with authorities investigating the suspect's history of legal battles involving his ex-wife and other family members.

Why it matters

This tragedy highlights the complex interplay of factors that can contribute to violent acts, including personal struggles, family conflict, and the potential challenges associated with navigating gender identity and societal biases. It underscores the importance of addressing mental health concerns and providing access to appropriate care, as well as the need to support individuals and families navigating gender identity issues.

The details

The shooting occurred during a youth hockey game between Coventry-Johnston and St. Raphael-Providence Country Day-North Providence-North Smithfield at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Witnesses described initial confusion, failing to immediately recognize the sounds as gunfire before chaos erupted as spectators scrambled for safety. Police identified the suspect as Robert Dorgan, who also used the name Roberta Esposito, and confirmed that he died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

  • The shooting occurred on Monday, February 16, 2026.
  • The incident took place during a youth hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

The players

Robert Dorgan

The 56-year-old suspect, who also went by the name Roberta Esposito, was reportedly at the arena to watch a family member play.

Rhonda Dorgan

The ex-wife of the suspect, whose initial divorce filing in 2020 cited 'gender reassignment surgery, narcissistic + personality disorder traits' as a reason for the split, though this was later amended to 'irreconcilable differences.'

Tina Goncalves

The Pawtucket Police Chief, who confirmed that the suspect died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

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What they’re saying

“keep bashing us. But do not wonder why we Go BERSERK.”

— Roberta Dorgano (X account)

“had problems with mental health' and was 'very sick.”

— Daughter of the suspect (Interview)

What’s next

The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to reconstruct the events and interview witnesses.

The takeaway

This tragedy highlights the importance of addressing mental health concerns, providing access to appropriate care, and supporting individuals and families navigating gender identity issues, as well as the need to address the complex interplay of personal struggles, family conflict, and societal biases that can contribute to violent acts.