Third Victim Dies After Pawtucket Hockey Rink Shooting

75-year-old Gerald Dorgan succumbed to his injuries from the attack that also killed his daughter and grandson.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

A third person has died following a shooting at a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island last week. 75-year-old Gerald Dorgan was the father of Rhonda Dorgan, who was killed along with her 23-year-old son Aidan Dorgan in the attack. The gunman, 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, died by suicide after the shooting.

Why it matters

The tragic incident at the Dennis M. Lynch arena has shaken the Pawtucket community and raised concerns about gun violence at public events. The shooting appears to have been a targeted attack, though the motive remains unclear.

The details

According to police, Robert Dorgan opened fire in the stands during the high school hockey game, killing his ex-wife Rhonda and their son Aidan. Fans in the stands tried to disarm the shooter, but he had a second weapon and died by suicide. Gerald Dorgan, Rhonda's father, was critically injured and has now succumbed to his wounds. Two other victims, Rhonda's mother Linda and a family friend Thomas Geruso, were also wounded in the shooting and remain in serious but stable condition.

  • The shooting occurred on February 16, 2026 during a high school hockey game.
  • Gerald Dorgan died on February 22, 2026 from his injuries.

The players

Robert Dorgan

The 56-year-old gunman who opened fire at the hockey rink, killing his ex-wife and son before dying by suicide.

Rhonda Dorgan

The 52-year-old ex-wife of Robert Dorgan who was killed in the shooting.

Aidan Dorgan

The 23-year-old son of Rhonda and Robert Dorgan who was killed in the shooting.

Gerald Dorgan

The 75-year-old father of Rhonda Dorgan who died from his injuries sustained in the shooting.

Thomas Geruso

The family friend who was wounded in the shooting and is the assistant principal at Charles E. Shea High School in Pawtucket.

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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. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the victim's family, friends, and all those impacted by this tragic act of violence.”

— Donald R. Grebien, Pawtucket Mayor (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Pawtucket police continue to investigate the motive behind the shooting. The community is expected to hold a vigil to honor the victims.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has shattered the Pawtucket community and raised urgent questions about gun violence and safety at public events. It underscores the need for comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of such senseless acts of violence.