A high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, was shattered by gunfire on February 16 when a man allegedly opened fire inside the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, killing his former spouse and their adult son before dying by suicide, according to police.

Authorities identified the suspect as 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, who was also known as Roberta Esposito. Police said Dorgan entered the arena during a matchup between North Providence High School and Coventry’s boys hockey team and discharged a firearm in what investigators describe as a targeted domestic dispute.

The victims were identified as Rhonda Dorgan, 52, and her 23-year-old son Aidan. Officials say Aidan attempted to shield his mother when the shooting began. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

Three additional individuals — including Rhonda’s parents and a family friend — sustained gunshot wounds and remain in critical condition. Emergency responders transported the injured to local hospitals as law enforcement secured the arena and evacuated spectators.

Police Chief Tina Goncalves described the incident as intentional and domestic in nature, stating there was no indication of a broader threat to the public beyond those targeted. Authorities reported no prior altercation at the venue immediately preceding the shooting.

Investigators say Dorgan died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following the attack. Law enforcement officials are continuing to examine the sequence of events, including how the firearm was brought into the arena and whether security measures were bypassed.

Court records reviewed by investigators indicate that Dorgan and Rhonda Dorgan’s marriage ended in 2021. Documents reflect that the relationship deteriorated following Dorgan’s gender-affirming surgery in 2020. Officials have not suggested that this aspect was directly connected to the violence but acknowledged it formed part of the marital history documented in court proceedings.

Witnesses inside the arena described scenes of panic as families and students sought cover. High school sporting events in smaller communities often draw large gatherings of relatives and supporters, making the setting particularly shocking for attendees.

Community leaders in Pawtucket expressed grief over the loss and emphasized the need for support services for students and families affected by the violence. Counseling resources have reportedly been made available to those who witnessed the incident.

Law enforcement agencies are continuing forensic examination of the scene and reviewing surveillance footage from inside and outside the facility. Authorities have also begun interviewing witnesses to establish a precise timeline of the suspect’s arrival and actions.

Domestic violence experts note that public settings can sometimes become locations for targeted acts when disputes escalate. However, they caution that each case carries unique factors and should not be generalized.

The deaths of Rhonda and Aidan Dorgan have left the local community in mourning. Vigils are expected to be held in the coming days as residents process the shock of violence occurring in what is typically considered a safe, communal environment.

Police emphasized that there is no ongoing threat related to the incident. The investigation remains active as officials compile findings for a comprehensive report.