Third victim dies in Rhode Island ice rink attack

Shooting at youth hockey game leaves community reeling

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The tragic shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, has claimed a third victim. Gerald Dorgan, 75, succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, according to Pawtucket police. This devastating event, which unfolded during a youth hockey game on February 16th, has left a community reeling and raises critical questions about the escalating issue of family violence.

Why it matters

The Rhode Island shooting is a stark reminder of the pervasive problem of family violence in the United States. Access to firearms significantly increases the risk of homicide in domestic violence situations, and the Pawtucket shooting tragically illustrates this point. Preventing family violence requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of abuse, provides support to victims, and holds perpetrators accountable.

The details

The shooter, identified as Robert Dorgan, 56 – also known as Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano – died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities have confirmed that Robert Dorgan specifically targeted his ex-wife, Rhonda, and their son, Aidan. Despite the chaos, several bystanders bravely intervened, containing the shooter and preventing further bloodshed. Linda Dorgan, Rhonda's mother, and Thomas Geruso, a family friend, were also wounded in the attack and are recovering.

  • The shooting occurred on February 16, 2026 during a youth hockey game.
  • Gerald Dorgan, 75, died from his injuries on February 25, 2026.

The players

Robert Dorgan

The 56-year-old shooter, also known as Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Rhonda Dorgan

The ex-wife of Robert Dorgan, who was specifically targeted in the attack.

Aidan Dorgan

The son of Rhonda Dorgan, who was also targeted in the attack.

Linda Dorgan

The mother of Rhonda Dorgan, who was wounded in the attack and is recovering.

Thomas Geruso

A family friend who was wounded in the attack and is recovering.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.