Pawtucket Hockey Rink Shooting Leaves 3 Dead

Suspect identified as transgender parent Robert K. Dorgan, who opened fire during youth hockey game

Feb. 20, 2026 at 11:23am

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According to police, the suspect in a deadly shooting at a youth hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island was 56-year-old Robert K. Dorgan, who also went by the name 'Roberta' and was described as transgender. Dorgan is accused of opening fire during the game, killing his wife and one child, and critically injuring other family members before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Why it matters

This tragic incident has shaken the local community and raised questions about mental health, domestic violence, and access to firearms. The fact that the suspect was a transgender parent has also added complexity to the case and the public response.

The details

Police say Dorgan arrived at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena and opened fire during a youth hockey game, killing his wife and one of their children. Several other family members were also critically injured in the shooting before Dorgan died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

  • The shooting occurred on February 18, 2026 during a youth hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

The players

Robert K. Dorgan

A 56-year-old parent who also went by the name 'Roberta' and was described as transgender. He is accused of opening fire during a youth hockey game, killing his wife and one child, and critically injuring other family members before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

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What they’re saying

“This is a devastating tragedy that has shocked our entire community. Our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

— Mayor Maria Rivera, Mayor of Pawtucket

What’s next

Police are continuing to investigate the motive behind the shooting and whether Dorgan had a history of mental health or domestic issues.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for greater mental health support, domestic violence prevention, and responsible gun ownership to help avoid such senseless acts of violence in the future.