PAWTUCKET, R.I. — Three people, including the suspected gunman, died after a parent allegedly opened fire on family members during a high school hockey game Monday afternoon at a Pawtucket ice rink.
The shooting occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m. during a Senior Night matchup featuring the Coventry–Johnston cooperative hockey team against the Blackstone Valley Schools team, which includes students from St. Raphael Academy, Providence Country Day School, and the public school districts of North Providence and North Smithfield. The event had drawn dozens of students, parents, and community members to celebrate graduating seniors.
Authorities identified the suspected shooter as 56-year-old Robert K. Dorgan of North Providence, who is also known as Roberta Esposito. Officials allege the suspect opened fire in the rink stands before dying from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
According to sources with direct knowledge of the investigation, the student’s mother — the suspect’s ex-wife — was fatally shot at the scene. The couple’s adult daughter later died at the hospital. Three additional family members were transported to Rhode Island Hospital in critical condition. A spokesperson for Brown Health confirmed their status as of late Monday afternoon. Authorities have not released the names of the victims.
Witnesses reported hearing rapid gunfire erupt from the stands, sending players and spectators scrambling for safety. Video from a livestream of the game captured the sound of numerous shots fired in quick succession, followed by additional gunfire moments later. Police vehicles quickly surrounded the arena, and officers secured the scene.
Authorities described the violence as stemming from a family-related dispute and said it appears to be an isolated incident. The investigation remains ongoing.
