Multiple vigils have been held in the days following a tragic shooting at a youth hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, which left three people dead, including the shooter, and three others critically injured. The community is processing this latest act of violence that has deeply affected the state.
The shooting occurred on Monday at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, where the shooter specifically targeted family members. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as many fans dove for cover while a few brave individuals rushed the shooter in an attempt to stop the attack.
Pawtucket Chief of Police Tina Goncalves confirmed that the shooter, identified as 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, killed his ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, and their adult son, Aidan Dorgan. Three additional individuals, including Rhonda Dorgan’s parents, Linda and Gerald Dorgan, and a family friend named Thomas Geruso, were injured and remained in critical condition as of Tuesday afternoon.
Details Surrounding the Shooter
Robert Dorgan, who was too known by the names Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after the shooting. According to Police Chief Goncalves, there was “no indication” that violence would erupt at the ice rink that afternoon, as Dorgan had attended many hockey games without incident in the past.
Gender identity issues appeared to factor into the turmoil within the Dorgan family, with court documents revealing that Rhonda Dorgan filed for divorce in 2020 after nearly 30 years of marriage. Initial reasons for the divorce included references to “gender reassignment surgery” and “narcissistic + personality disorder traits,” though these were later crossed out in favor of citing “irreconcilable differences.”
Community Response and Support
In light of the shooting, the community has rallied together, holding vigils and offering support to those affected. One such vigil took place at Slatersville Congregational Church, where attendees expressed their shock and sorrow over the incident. Amy Goulet, a community member, shared her disbelief that such violence could occur among people they realize and care about.
Michael Black, a bystander who intervened during the shooting, recounted his experience of hearing gunfire and rushing to disarm the shooter. “I saw the gun, and I took a step and jumped down, grabbed the gun, tried to knock the person down,” he stated. Black, who suffered an injury to his hand during the struggle, praised the police for their swift response.
Emotional Toll on Families
Family friends and community members are struggling with the emotional impact of the shooting. Ethan Kasht, a friend of the Dorgan family, commented on the tragedy, emphasizing that no one involved deserved to face such violence. “The brother didn’t deserve it. The mom didn’t deserve it. Everybody in the hospital — nobody deserved it,” he expressed.
Across northern Rhode Island, communities are coming together through grief sessions and support networks, underscoring the shared love for hockey and the tight-knit nature of the region. Kristin Koloski, another local, remarked on the emotional weight of the incident, particularly given the importance of hockey in their lives.
Governor’s Statement and Continued Support
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee has ordered flags at all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff in honor of the victims. The flags will remain at half-staff through Sunday, February 22. In a statement, McKee expressed that “hearts are heavy across Rhode Island as we grieve this tragedy,” and called for unity and compassion within the community.
The city is also providing mental health support services for anyone affected by the shooting at the Blackstone Valley Visitors Center.
This shooting is the latest in a series of violent incidents in Rhode Island, following a previous shooting at Brown University that left two students dead and nine others injured. As the community continues to mourn, the focus remains on healing and supporting one another during this difficult time.
For those struggling with the aftermath of such violence, resources are available through local mental health services. It’s crucial for community members to arrive together and seek help as they process the events of this tragedy.
