Bystander tackles shooter at Rhode Island hockey rink

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A man attending a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on Monday described tackling the shooter, who opened fire on members of his own family, killing two and wounding three others. The bystander, Michael Black, said he told his wife to run before 'going for the gun' and getting his hand stuck in the weapon's chamber, preventing it from firing again. Other bystanders then helped restrain the shooter, who later died by suicide.

Why it matters

The shooting at the hockey rink is the latest in a string of gun violence incidents at public events in the U.S., raising concerns about public safety and security measures at community gatherings. The actions of the bystander who intervened are being hailed as heroic, though he rejects the label, highlighting the complex emotions and trauma that can arise from such events.

The details

According to police, the shooting was domestic in nature, with the victims including members of the suspect's own family and a family friend. After hearing the initial gunshots, Michael Black said he told his wife and a friend to run, then stood on the bleachers and lunged at the gunman, getting his hand stuck in the weapon's chamber. Other bystanders then helped tackle the shooter, causing him to drop additional loaded magazines. The shooter then pulled out a second gun and died by suicide.

• The shooting occurred just before 3 p.m. on Monday at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
• The high school hockey games were scheduled to take place at the time of the shooting.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Authorities are investigating the motive behind the shooting and the relationship between the suspect and victims. The identities of the deceased and injured have not yet been released.