Third Relative of Transgender Dad Shooter Dies After Rhode Island Hockey Game Rampage

Gerald Dorgan, 75, was the ex-father-in-law of shooter Robert Dorgan, who opened fire at a high school hockey game, killing three relatives.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A third victim has died from his wounds nine days after troubled transgender gunman Robert Dorgan opened fire at a Rhode Island high school hockey game. Gerald Dorgan, 75, the shooter's ex-father-in-law, had been in critical condition since the Feb. 16 shooting that also claimed the lives of his daughter, Rhonda Dorgan, and grandson, Aidan Dorgan.

Why it matters

The shooting rampage at the high school hockey game has devastated the local community and raised questions about mental health, family dynamics, and gun violence, especially in the context of the shooter's recent gender transition.

The details

Robert Dorgan, 56, deliberately targeted his own family when he started shooting in the stands at the high school hockey game before taking his own life when tackled by hero onlookers. His ex-wife's mother, Linda Dorgan, and family friend Thomas Geruso were also left fighting for their lives. Robert Dorgan had the same surname as his former in-law because his ex-wife was also a cousin.

  • The shooting occurred on February 16, 2026.
  • Gerald Dorgan died on February 25, 2026, nine days after the shooting.

The players

Robert Dorgan

The 56-year-old transgender shooter who opened fire at the high school hockey game, killing three of his own relatives.

Gerald Dorgan

The 75-year-old ex-father-in-law of Robert Dorgan, who died from his wounds nine days after the shooting.

Rhonda Dorgan

The daughter of Gerald Dorgan and cousin of Robert Dorgan, who was killed in the shooting.

Aidan Dorgan

The grandson of Gerald Dorgan, who was killed in the shooting.

Linda Dorgan

The wife of Gerald Dorgan, who was left fighting for her life after the shooting.

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What they’re saying

“We are heartbroken to learn that another life has been lost as a result of last Monday's senseless shooting at Lynch Arena.”

— Donald R. Grebien, Pawtucket Mayor

What’s next

Authorities continue to investigate the motives behind the shooting and the shooter's mental health history.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the need for greater mental health support and resources, especially for individuals undergoing major life changes like gender transition, to prevent such devastating acts of violence from occurring in the future.