Third victim dies in Pawtucket hockey rink shooting

Gerald Dorgan, 75, succumbed to injuries sustained in the attack, police say

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A third victim has died following a deadly shooting at a Rhode Island hockey rink last week. Gerald Dorgan, 75, was shot by his former son-in-law Robert Dorgan during a high school hockey game on February 16. Dorgan's daughter Rhonda and grandson Aidan were killed in the attack, while his wife Linda and a family friend were also seriously injured.

Why it matters

The shooting at the Pawtucket hockey rink has shaken the local community and raised questions about gun violence, domestic disputes, and security measures at public sporting events.

The details

According to police, Robert Dorgan opened fire on his family members while they were attending a high school hockey game. Gerald Dorgan was sitting with his daughter Rhonda and grandson Aidan when Robert started shooting. Rhonda died at the scene, while Aidan died after being rushed to the hospital. Gerald Dorgan succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday. Robert Dorgan then turned the gun on himself and died from a self-inflicted wound.

  • The shooting occurred on Monday, February 16, 2026 during a high school hockey game.
  • Gerald Dorgan died from his injuries on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Gerald Dorgan

A 75-year-old man who was shot and killed by his former son-in-law at a hockey rink in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

Rhonda Dorgan

Gerald Dorgan's daughter, who was killed in the shooting at the hockey rink.

Aidan Dorgan

Gerald Dorgan's grandson, who was killed in the shooting at the hockey rink.

Robert Dorgan

The former son-in-law of Gerald Dorgan, who opened fire on his family members at the hockey rink before turning the gun on himself.

Linda Dorgan

Gerald Dorgan's wife, who was seriously injured in the shooting.

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What they’re saying

“Video cameras from inside the arena show Robert left the game at some point and returned, but it was not known at what point he first had the guns on his person.”

— Tina Goncalves, Pawtucket Police Chief (boston25news.com)

What’s next

Pawtucket police are continuing to investigate the shooting and the circumstances surrounding Robert Dorgan's actions. They are also looking into whether he had a valid license to carry firearms in Rhode Island.

The takeaway

This tragic shooting has devastated the Pawtucket community and raised urgent questions about gun violence, domestic disputes, and security measures at public sporting events. It underscores the need for greater awareness and prevention of such senseless acts of violence.