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Shooting at Rhode Island Ice Rink Leaves 3 Dead, 3 Injured
Suspect's daughter alleges 'vendetta' against family as motive for attack
Feb. 21, 2026 at 8:55am
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A shooting at a Rhode Island ice hockey rink on Monday left three people dead, including the suspect's ex-wife and adult son, and three others critically injured. The suspect, who identified as transgender, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The suspect's daughter alleged he had a 'vendetta' against the family and that they were the specific targets of the attack.
Why it matters
The shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket has shaken the local community and raised questions about the suspect's motive and any potential history of conflict within the family. The incident also highlights the broader issue of gun violence in the United States and the need for further examination of mental health resources and support for LGBTQ+ individuals.
The details
According to authorities, the suspect, 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, fatally shot his ex-wife Rhonda Dorgan and their adult son Aiden Dorgan at the ice rink. Three other victims, including Rhonda's parents Linda and Gerald Dorgan, were also critically injured in the shooting. The third victim was identified as Thomas Geruso, a friend of the Dorgan family. Dorgan died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
- The shooting occurred on Monday, February 18, 2026 during a high school hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
- In 2020, Robert Dorgan reported to North Providence police that he had undergone gender-reassignment surgery and alleged his father-in-law wanted him out of the family home because of it.
- Also in 2020, Robert Dorgan accused his mother of assaulting him, though the case was later dismissed.
- The divorce between Robert and Rhonda Dorgan was finalized in 2021.
The players
Robert Dorgan
The 56-year-old suspect who identified as transgender and fatally shot his ex-wife and adult son at the ice rink before dying by suicide.
Rhonda Dorgan
The ex-wife of Robert Dorgan who was killed in the shooting.
Aiden Dorgan
The adult son of Robert and Rhonda Dorgan who was killed in the shooting.
Linda and Gerald Dorgan
The parents of Rhonda Dorgan who were critically injured in the shooting.
Thomas Geruso
A friend of the Dorgan family who was also critically injured in the shooting.
What they’re saying
“I just want to make sure people understand this was one person's vendetta against their family. We were targeted. This was very specific. It wasn't random.”
— Amanda Wallace-Hubbard, Daughter of Robert Dorgan
“Until that good Samaritan incapacitated him, I really feared that my sons were next. I can't thank him enough. I'm certain my sons and I are alive because of him.”
— Amanda Wallace-Hubbard, Daughter of Robert Dorgan
What’s next
Investigators are continuing to review surveillance footage and witness accounts as they piece together a timeline of the shooting and determine a motive.
The takeaway
This tragic shooting has left a community in mourning and raised urgent questions about gun violence, mental health resources, and support for LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. As the investigation continues, there is a need for greater understanding, empathy, and preventative measures to address the complex factors that can lead to such devastating acts of violence.
