A targeted domestic attack inside a Pawtucket arena left an ex-wife and son dead, while three other family members fight for their lives.
A horrifying scene unfolded at the Dennis M Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, when a heavily armed suspect opened fire on family members attending a youth ice hockey game. The Monday afternoon shooting claimed the lives of Rhonda Dorgan and her adult son, Aidan Dorgan, and left the suspect dead of a suspected suicide.
Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves identified the perpetrator as 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, noting the suspect also utilized the names Roberta Dorgan and Roberta Esposito. Three additional victims, identified as Rhonda’s parents and a close family friend, remain in critical condition following the targeted barrage.
Spectator Takes Action
As shots rang out across the crowded arena, panic ensued among the high school players and attending families. Witness Melissa Dunn, whose son was on the ice, recalled the initial confusion.
You don’t know what’s going on at first. You just hear the loud noises. And we’re used to the kids banging on the board with their skates, so we thought it was that at first.
The situation could have resulted in a higher casualty count if not for the brave actions of an audience member. Authorities confirmed that a “Good Samaritan” tackled the shooter in the stands, disrupting the attack. Following the struggle, the suspect utilized a second firearm to end his own life.
Domestic History Under Review
While a definitive motive has not been formally declared, investigators are examining a bitter domestic history. The suspect and his ex-wife divorced following a 2020 filing. During that period, the suspect also pursued unsuccessful criminal charges against his former father-in-law over alleged threats related to the shooter’s gender transition.
Police confirmed the recovery of two legally registered firearms—a SIG Sauer P226 and a Glock 10mm pistol—at the scene. A family statement released via an online fundraising campaign expressed devastation, noting that the surviving grandparents are currently “fighting for their lives.”
SOURCES: Pawtucket Police Department Press Conference, Witness Interviews, Family Statements.
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