Trans Rhode Island Gunman Had Permit to Carry High-Powered Pistol in Massacre

Robert Dorgan used a 10mm Glock and .357 Sig-caliber Sig Sauer to kill his ex-wife and son at a high school hockey game.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 11:48pm

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Robert Dorgan, a 56-year-old trans individual, had a concealed carry permit from Florida but used two high-powered handguns to murder his ex-wife Rhonda and their 23-year-old son Aidan at a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Dorgan also critically wounded Rhonda's parents and a family friend before taking his own life. Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the attack.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the complexities surrounding gun laws and permits, as well as the ongoing challenges in addressing mental health issues and preventing mass shootings. The use of high-powered firearms like the 10mm Glock has raised concerns about the lethality of certain weapons and the need for stricter regulations.

The details

Dorgan obtained a concealed carry permit in Florida, but it was not valid in Rhode Island. He used a Glock 29 10mm purchased in Jacksonville in 2021 and a .357 Sig-caliber Sig Sauer P226 bought in West Warwick, R.I., in 2019 to carry out the attack. The 10mm round is nearly twice as powerful as the 9mm used by many police departments and the military, and is considered powerful enough for hunting large game like bears or deer.

  • On Monday, February 20, 2026, at around 2:30 p.m., Dorgan opened fire at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
  • Dorgan obtained the Glock 29 10mm in Jacksonville, Florida, in September 2021.
  • Dorgan purchased the .357 Sig-caliber Sig Sauer P226 in West Warwick, Rhode Island, in July 2019.

The players

Robert Dorgan

A 56-year-old trans individual who had a concealed carry permit from Florida but used two high-powered handguns to murder his ex-wife and son at a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

Rhonda Dorgan

Robert Dorgan's 52-year-old ex-wife, who was killed in the attack.

Aidan Dorgan

Robert and Rhonda Dorgan's 23-year-old son, who was also killed in the attack.

Gerald and Linda Dorgan

Rhonda Dorgan's parents, who were critically wounded in the attack.

Thomas Geruso

A family friend who was also critically wounded in the attack.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.