Pawtucket, Rhode Island – A tragic shooting at a high school hockey game on Monday afternoon has left two people dead and three others critically injured. Authorities have identified the shooter as Robert Dorgan, a 56-year-old man who reportedly used the name Roberta Esposito. Dorgan, who is the father of a player on the North Providence High School team, turned the gun on himself after attacking family members and a family friend at the Lynch Arena.
During a press conference, Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves confirmed that Dorgan shot his child’s mother, another relative, and a family friend before taking his own life. Sources indicated that Dorgan’s child was on the ice competing in the event when the violence erupted.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene unfolding in the stands, where Dorgan initially sat before moving toward the front and opening fire on his family. Multiple sources indicated that Dorgan’s child’s mother died on the spot, while another family member succumbed to injuries after being rushed to the hospital. The condition of the three injured individuals remains critical.
Local officials expressed their condolences and concerns following the devastating incident. Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien emphasized the community’s need for healing and support in these difficult times. “Pawtucket is a strong and resilient community, but tonight we are a city in mourning,” Grebien said. He confirmed that law enforcement agencies are collaborating with the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office to piece together the events leading to the tragedy.
Reports suggest that a bystander intervened during the shooting, attempting to disarm Dorgan before he could inflict more harm. Although this courageous effort was noted, Dorgan reportedly had another firearm concealed. Police responded rapidly, arriving at the scene just two minutes after receiving the first emergency call.
A witness captured the scene on livestream, showing onlookers fleeing in panic as some rushed to provide assistance to the wounded. Accounts from those present reflected a harrowing experience, with one individual stating they saw someone performing CPR on the victims.
Family members revealed Dorgan’s ongoing struggles with mental health, with his daughter indicating he had been “very sick.” Calls for mental health intervention are likely to rise in the aftermath of this tragedy, as communities grapple with the implications of such acts of violence.
As the investigation continues, residents of Pawtucket and the surrounding areas are left to cope with the aftermath of this heartbreaking event, seeking solace in each other as they process the collective grief. The community’s response will be crucial in navigating the difficult days ahead, emphasizing the importance of support and understanding for all affected.