Robert Dorgan (also known as Roberta) has been identified as the suspected shooter in a Feb. 16 attack at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, R.I. The shooting occurred during a high school hockey game and left two family members dead; the suspect died of a self-inflicted gunshot. Three other people — including a family friend — remain in critical condition. Police say the incident appears to be a targeted family dispute, and the city is offering counseling and support services.
Suspect Identified After Pawtucket High School Hockey Shooting; Two Dead, Three Critically Injured
People near the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on Feb. 16, 2026Joseph Prezioso / AFP via Getty
Police have identified the person accused of opening fire during a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, an attack that left two family members dead and three others critically wounded.
A photo from the scene after a shooter opened fire at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on Feb. 16, 2026Joseph Prezioso / AFP via Getty
What Happened
Authorities say the shooting occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena. The suspect has been named as Robert Dorgan, who reportedly also uses the name Roberta. Local reporting indicates Dorgan was at the rink to watch their son play when the incident unfolded.
A photo from the scene after a shooter opened fire at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island on Feb. 16, 2026AP Photo/Mark Stockwell
Casualties and Injuries
According to local media and law enforcement statements, the player’s mother was killed at the arena and the player’s sibling later died at a hospital. ABC News reported the suspected shooter died at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A family friend and two additional family members were injured and remain in critical condition, Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves said.
An infographic showing the location of the Pawtucket, Rhode Island shootingMehmet Yaren Bozgun/Anadolu via Getty
Investigation And Context
Chief Goncalves described the attack as a "targeted event" arising from what investigators believe was a family dispute. She also praised a bystander who intervened, saying a "Good Samaritan stepped in and interjected in this scene, and that's probably what led to a swift end of this tragic event." Local court records reviewed by reporters reportedly show a history of family conflicts and references to disputes related to the suspect's gender identity, though officials say the investigation is ongoing.
Community Response
The Pawtucket Police Department posted that the city "stands with those affected by the tragic shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena" and encouraged anyone impacted to seek counseling. Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien called it "a terrible tragedy," saying what should have been a Senior Night celebration for the Blackstone Valley Schools cooperative hockey team was instead marked by violence and fear. City officials said they are coordinating mental health and support services for players, families and others affected.
Next Steps
Investigators continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. Authorities have not released additional identifying details about the victims at this time and request that the public rely on confirmed information as it becomes available.
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