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Pawtucket Shooting Leaves 3 Dead, 3 Injured
Shooter kills ex-wife, adult son before turning gun on himself at youth hockey game
Feb. 21, 2026 at 9:23am
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A 56-year-old man named Robert Dorgan opened fire at a youth hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, killing his ex-wife Rhonda Dorgan and their adult son Aidan Dorgan. Dorgan also injured his in-laws Linda and Gerald Dorgan, as well as a family friend Thomas Geruso, before dying by suicide. The shooting occurred at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena during a Senior Night Game that the victims were attending.
Why it matters
This tragic incident highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence and the devastating impact it can have on families. The shooting also raises questions about security measures at public events and whether more can be done to prevent such acts of violence in the future.
The details
According to police, Robert Dorgan, who also went by the name Roberta Esposito, was not a Rhode Island resident. He opened fire on his ex-wife Rhonda Dorgan and their adult son Aidan Dorgan, killing them both. Dorgan also shot and critically injured his in-laws Linda and Gerald Dorgan, as well as a family friend Thomas Geruso. Immediately after the shooting, at least three individuals attempted to subdue Dorgan, but he turned a second gun on himself and died from a self-inflicted wound.
- The shooting occurred around 2:30 p.m. ET on Monday, February 17, 2026.
- Rhonda Dorgan had filed for divorce from Robert Dorgan six years ago on the same date, February 17.
The players
Robert Dorgan
The 56-year-old shooter, who also went by the name Roberta Esposito, killed his ex-wife and adult son before taking his own life.
Rhonda Dorgan
The ex-wife of Robert Dorgan, who was killed by him during the shooting.
Aidan Dorgan
The adult son of Robert and Rhonda Dorgan, who was killed by his father during the shooting.
Linda Dorgan
The in-law of Robert Dorgan, who was critically injured in the shooting.
Gerald Dorgan
The in-law of Robert Dorgan, who was critically injured in the shooting.
What they’re saying
“There was no threat of violence before the hockey game yesterday, that shooter Robert Dorgan would regularly attend son's hockey games. Still trying to determine motive.”
— Tina Goncalves, Pawtucket Police Chief
“Rhonda Dorgan filed for divorce from Robert Dorgan 6 years ago today.”
— Brian Crandall
What’s next
Police are still investigating the motive behind the shooting and are trying to determine if there were any warning signs or threats of violence prior to the incident.
The takeaway
This tragic shooting underscores the need for greater awareness and prevention of domestic violence, as well as improved security measures at public events to protect innocent bystanders. The loss of life is devastating, and the community must come together to support the surviving victims and their families during this difficult time.
