Tragedy Strikes as Two Killed in Targeted Shooting at Pawtucket Hockey Game

The Tragic Shooting at Pawtucket's Hockey Arena

A shocking act of violence occurred during a high school hockey game on February 16, 2026, at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Two individuals tragically lost their lives, and three others sustained critical injuries in this devastating incident. According to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, the perpetrator, identified as transgender Robert Dorgan, also died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, marking this as a particularly heartbreaking event for the local community.

The Impact on the Community

This incident hit close to home for many Pawtucket residents. The shooting, believed to be a targeted attack stemming from a family dispute, not only involved the immediate victims but has also sent shockwaves throughout the community. Governor Dan McKee expressed his sorrow, stating, "Our state is grieving again," and highlighted the continuous cycle of gun violence that affects too many Rhode Islanders.

Emergency Response and Support Services

The response from local, state, and federal agencies was swift, with the FBI and ATF joining local law enforcement to assist in the aftermath. First responders worked tirelessly to manage the situation, providing immediate aid to the victims. The city has put resources in place for mental health support, establishing a 211 hotline for counseling services to help those affected by this traumatic event, underscoring the enduring challenge of dealing with grief and trauma associated with gun violence.

A Call for Change

In the wake of this incident, there is an intensified call for comprehensive discussions surrounding gun control and violence prevention. Many lawmakers, including Representative Katherine Clark, have urged for legislative action to address the escalating frequency of mass shootings in public spaces across the U.S. The plea for commonsense gun safety measures becomes ever more pressing as communities grapple with restoring a sense of safety and normalcy.

Understanding the Context

The environment at youth sporting events is typically one of celebration and camaraderie, making this act of violence even more distressing. Family members and friends gathered to support their loved ones during Senior Night—a milestone moment—were instead subjected to a traumatic incident. Witness accounts reflect chaos and fear as spectators attempted to find safety—highlighting both the vulnerability of our public spaces and the urgent need for preventive measures to ensure such tragedies do not occur again.

As Pawtucket and the larger Rhode Island community come to terms with this tragedy, the importance of mental health resources and community support structures cannot be overstated. Families affected by the violence will need help navigating their grief, underscoring the necessity for an ongoing dialogue about the consequences of gun violence in communities nationwide.