Shooting at Rhode Island Hockey Game Leaves 2 Dead, 3 Critically Injured

Gunman killed his wife and shot three of his children before taking his own life, authorities say

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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A shooting at a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on Monday afternoon left two people dead and three others critically injured. The gunman, identified as 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, opened fire inside the Dennis M. Lynch Arena before dying by suicide. Police say the incident was a targeted act of domestic violence.

Why it matters

The tragic shooting at a high school sporting event has shaken the local community and raised concerns about safety at such public gatherings. It also highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence and domestic disputes escalating to deadly levels.

The details

According to police, Dorgan arrived at the arena to watch a relative play and opened fire, killing his wife and critically injuring three of his children. A bystander attempted to subdue the shooter, which authorities say likely prevented further bloodshed. The game, which was being livestreamed, captured the chaos as spectators fled and players took cover.

  • The shooting occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Monday, February 17, 2026 during a high school hockey game.
  • Dorgan died at the scene from what investigators described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The players

Robert Dorgan

The 56-year-old gunman who opened fire at the hockey game, killing his wife and critically injuring three of his children before taking his own life.

Tina Goncalves

The Pawtucket Police Chief who identified Dorgan as the shooter and said the incident was a targeted act of domestic violence.

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 (kpua.net)

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

— Donald Grebien, Mayor of Pawtucket (kpua.net)

What’s next

Federal agents from the ATF and FBI are assisting local and state authorities in the investigation. Investigators have recovered multiple firearms, though details about the weapons have not been released.

The takeaway

This tragic shooting at a high school sporting event has left the local community devastated and raised urgent questions about gun violence, domestic disputes, and safety at public gatherings. It underscores the need for continued efforts to address these complex societal issues and prevent such senseless acts of violence.