Shooting at Rhode Island Hockey Game Kills 2, Injures 3

Gunman opened fire during high school matchup, prompting lockdown and suspension of games

Feb. 22, 2026 at 3:07am

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A shooting at a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on Monday left two people dead and three others critically injured before the gunman, identified as Robert Dorgan, took his own life. The violence was described as a 'targeted' domestic incident, with Dorgan allegedly killing his wife and shooting three of his children. A bystander was credited with helping to end the attack.

Why it matters

The tragic shooting at a high school sporting event has shaken the local community and raised concerns about safety at youth athletic competitions. It also highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing domestic violence and mental health issues that can lead to such devastating acts of violence.

The details

Police say Dorgan, 56, opened fire inside the Dennis M. Lynch Arena during a senior night hockey matchup between teams from Blackstone Valley Schools and Coventry-Johnston. One victim was found dead inside the rink, while a second later died at a hospital. Three additional victims were transported in critical condition. Authorities described the shooting as a 'targeted' domestic incident, with Dorgan killing his wife and shooting three of his children before dying by suicide. A bystander was credited with helping to end the attack.

  • The shooting occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Monday, February 18, 2026 during a high school hockey game.
  • One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while a second died later at a hospital.
  • The Rhode Island Interscholastic League announced it would temporarily suspend all interscholastic games after the incident.

The players

Robert Dorgan

The 56-year-old gunman who opened fire at the hockey game, killing two people and critically injuring three others before taking his own life. Police described the shooting as a 'targeted' domestic incident.

Tina Goncalves

The Pawtucket Police Chief who identified Dorgan as the shooter and said the violence was tied to a family conflict.

Donald Grebien

The Mayor of Pawtucket who called the shooting 'a terrible tragedy' and said the community is 'in mourning'.

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What they’re saying

“A Good Samaritan stepped in and interjected in this scene, and that's probably what led to a swift end of this tragic event.”

— Tina Goncalves, Pawtucket Police Chief

“Pawtucket is a strong and resilient community, but tonight we are a city in mourning.”

— Donald Grebien, Mayor of Pawtucket

What’s next

Federal agents from the ATF and FBI assisted local and state authorities at the scene, and investigators recovered multiple firearms, though officials have not released details about the weapons. The Rhode Island Interscholastic League announced it would temporarily halt all interscholastic games out of respect for the victims and to reflect upon the violence.

The takeaway

This tragic shooting at a high school sporting event has shaken the local community and raised urgent questions about safety, domestic violence, and mental health issues that can lead to such devastating acts of violence. It underscores the need for comprehensive solutions to address the complex factors that contribute to these senseless tragedies.