A 56-year-old former shipyard worker, Robert Dorgan, opened fire during a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, killing his ex-wife and adult son and seriously injuring three others before taking his own life.
Authorities said Dorgan shot and killed Rhonda Dorgan and Aidan Dorgan while the family was attending another son’s hockey game. Rhonda’s parents and a family friend were critically wounded.
The shooting took place at Dennis M. Lynch Arena, about five miles from Providence. Police Chief Tina Goncalves described the incident as an unimaginable act of domestic violence, adding that investigators are still working to determine the motive.
Video from the game captured what sounded like roughly 13 shots fired within six seconds, followed by a final shot moments later, prompting spectators and players to flee.
Police said Dorgan, who also used the name Roberta Esposito, appeared to specifically target family members. Records show the suspect moved to Jacksonville, Florida, in 2020, the same year his spouse filed for divorce; the divorce was finalized in 2021.
Images from social media show the suspect had tattoos resembling Nazi SS imagery, and on X the suspect once described their political views as being “to the right of Hitler.”
Authorities said three bystanders bravely intervened and managed to disarm the shooter, who then pulled out a second handgun and fatally shot himself.
Police confirmed Dorgan legally owned firearms and had a Florida carry permit. He brought two handguns — a Glock and a Sig Sauer — into the arena.
Investigators say there was no clear sign the victims anticipated violence, and video evidence does not show any confrontation before the attack. However, officials emphasized the shooting was highly targeted.
Dorgan was reportedly an employee at Bath Iron Works in Maine. Officials confirmed the two fatalities were Rhonda and Aidan Dorgan, while three other victims remain in critical condition