Tragic Arena Shooting Claims Three Lives
Three individuals died and three others sustained injuries following a shooting incident at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, on Monday. The event, which occurred during a high school hockey game, involved the identified shooter and two victims. Authorities note the incident appears to have stemmed from a family dispute, and bystanders are credited with intervening during the attack.
Incident Overview
On Monday, November 6, 2023, Robert Dorgan, 56, opened fire during a high school hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, resulting in three fatalities and three critical injuries. The deceased include Dorgan himself, his ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, and their adult son, Aidan Dorgan.
The three injured individuals, reported to be in critical condition, are Rhonda Dorgan's parents, Linda and Gerald Dorgan, and family friend Thomas Geruso. Robert Dorgan died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The incident unfolded during a high school hockey game featuring the Coventry-Johnston co-op and the St. Raphael-Providence Country Day-North Providence-North Smithfield co-op. The game was being livestreamed by LiveBarn, and these recordings are now a key part of the ongoing police investigation.
Heroic Bystanders Credited with Averting Greater Tragedy
Multiple bystanders courageously intervened during the shooting, playing a crucial role in bringing the attack to a swift end. Michael Black confronted Robert Dorgan, managing to get his left hand caught in the gun's chamber, which jammed the weapon. Other individuals, including Robert Rattenni and Ryan Cordeiro, further assisted in subduing Dorgan, with one individual reportedly applying a choke hold.
Authorities stated that these decisive actions prevented Dorgan from using a second firearm and likely averted further injury and loss of life. Retired firefighters and EMTs Chris Librizzi and Glenn Narodowy, along with nurse Maryann Rattenni, were also on scene, providing immediate first aid to the injured.
Police have commendably credited these "courageous citizens" with preventing further injury and increasing the chances of survival for those wounded.
Investigation Points to Targeted Family Dispute
Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves confirmed that preliminary findings indicate the violence stemmed from a family dispute and appeared to be a targeted event. There was no prior indication of violence at the ice rink, as Dorgan had attended many games without incident previously.
Both Pawtucket police and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are actively investigating the incident. Nearly 100 witnesses have been interviewed so far, and extensive video footage from inside the arena is currently under review.
While authorities have not directly commented on Dorgan's gender identity as relevant to the investigation, court records from a 2020 divorce filing by Dorgan's ex-wife indicated gender identity as a contributing factor in their dispute.
Background of the Individuals
Robert Dorgan, who was also known by the names Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano, was employed at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works in Bath, Maine. Military records indicate Dorgan briefly served in the Marine Corps in 1988, with a rapid discharge cited due to a service character incongruent with Marine Corps expectations and standards.
Aidan Dorgan, 23, the adult son who tragically died in the incident, had a personal connection to the venue; he had previously played hockey at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena. He was attending his younger brother's game with family when the shooting occurred.
Community Reels and Responds
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, roads around the Dennis M. Lynch Arena were shut down as emergency services converged on the scene. Officials from the affected school districts, including St. Raphael Academy, Coventry's superintendent, and Johnston Public Schools, swiftly confirmed the safety of their students, reporting all involved or in attendance were accounted for and safe.
RIPTA buses were deployed to assist in the crucial reunification of families. The broader community response included a statement from the Providence Bruins organization, which extended support and commended first responders. Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee also issued a statement, expressing profound condolences to the victims and their families.
Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien acknowledged the tragic incident, clarifying that it was unrelated to a previous gun violence incident at Brown University approximately two months prior.