Ice Rink Shooting Victims Identified as Attacker's Ex-Wife and Son
Police have confirmed that the victims in a deadly shooting at an ice rink in Rhode Island were the attacker's ex-wife and adult son. The tragic incident occurred at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, near Providence, on Monday afternoon, where a youth hockey game was scheduled to take place.
Details of the Attack
According to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, Robert Dorgan, 56, fatally shot his ex-wife Rhonda and their adult son Aidan at approximately 2:30 PM local time. The attack also critically injured three other individuals, identified as Ms. Dorgan's parents and a family friend. All three remain in critical condition at a local hospital.
Dorgan, who was also known as Roberta Esposito, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after the assault. Chief Goncalves revealed that the attack was interrupted by an unnamed "Good Samaritan" among the spectators, who intervened to bring the shooting to a swift end.
Chaos at the Arena
Unverified footage published on social media showed players and spectators racing for cover after popping sounds were heard at the venue. The video also captured a man throwing himself at Dorgan to stop the shooting. Authorities reported that at least three bystanders were able to contain Dorgan, who attempted to reach for a second firearm before taking his own life.
Outside the arena, tearful families and high school hockey players still in their kits could be seen hugging as police cordoned off the ice rink. One victim was found dead inside the arena, while the other died after being transported to the hospital.
Motivation and Aftermath
Chief Goncalves stated that the attack stemmed from a "family dispute", but there was "no indication" that violence would erupt at the ice rink on Monday. She noted that Dorgan had attended many hockey games previously without incident.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee expressed profound grief in a statement, saying, "Our state is grieving again. As governor, a parent, and a former coach, my heart breaks for the victims, families, students, and everyone impacted by the devastating shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket."
Broader Context
This tragic event comes almost two months after a gunman killed three people at Brown University in nearby Providence before turning the weapon on himself. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and family disputes escalating into public tragedies.
Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances surrounding the shooting, while the community mourns the loss of life and supports those injured in the attack.
