Pawtucket, Rhode Island — A tragic shooting at a local ice hockey rink on Monday left two family members dead and several others injured, raising serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the violence. Robert Dorgan, 56, is accused of fatally shooting his ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, and their adult son, Aidan Dorgan, during a youth hockey game. The suspect later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to law enforcement.
The incident occurred at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, where chaos erupted as gunfire rang out during the game. In addition to the victims who died, three people were wounded, including Rhonda Dorgan’s elderly parents, Linda and Gerald, both of whom remain in critical condition. Thomas Geruso, a family friend, was also reported to be in grave condition.
Amanda Wallace-Hubbard, Robert Dorgan’s daughter from a previous relationship, described the situation as a targeted attack against her family rather than random violence. “I want to make it clear that this was not a random act,” she stated, emphasizing the personal nature of the attack. She credited an unidentified individual who intervened during the shooting with saving her and her sons, who were present at the rink.
Witnesses inside the arena described the terrifying moments as shots were fired, with players and spectators scrambling for safety. Video footage captured the pandemonium, highlighting the gravity of the situation as multiple shots were heard amid screams and cries for help.
While authorities continue to investigate the motivations behind the shooting, they have alluded to a possible history of family disputes involving Robert Dorgan. Court records reveal that he had a documented history of conflict with family members, which intensified following his gender transition. Past police reports indicate a strained relationship with his father-in-law and allegations of derogatory remarks regarding Dorgan’s gender identity.
The family of the victims expressed their devastation following the events, noting the profound emotional toll this tragedy has taken on them. “We are deeply affected by this loss and focused on those injured,” they stated. They have also indicated their willingness to cooperate with investigators as they attempt to piece together the events leading up to the shooting.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed a definitive motive for the shooting, but Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves referred to it as a “family dispute.” As the community begins to grapple with the aftermath of this event, the investigation remains ongoing, with police reviewing surveillance footage to establish a timeline of the shooting.
Court documents have revealed additional layers of conflict within the Dorgan family that may have contributed to the incident. In previous interactions with law enforcement, Robert Dorgan expressed fears of retaliation from family members who disagreed with his transition. Reports indicate that discussions surrounding these conflicts had degenerated into threats of violence.
The shooting has sent shockwaves through Pawtucket, prompting community members to reflect on the underlying issues that can lead to such tragic outcomes. As the investigation unfolds, there is a growing call for awareness and dialogue around mental health and family dynamics. The grief-stricken community is left to mourn and process the losses while seeking answers in a situation that has deeply affected lives on multiple fronts.