Suspect Dead After Shooting at Rhode Island High School Hockey Game

Two people were killed and three others injured after gunfire broke out during a high school hockey game at the Dennis M Lynch Arena in Pawtucket on Sunday (ET). Police identified the suspect as Robert Dorgan, who also used the name Roberta and the surname Esposito; he died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound inside the arena.

Deadly scene at Lynch Arena

The shooting erupted while players were on the ice, prompting panic as teams and spectators scrambled for cover. Video from the scene showed multiple shots and chaotic movement as families ran from the stands. Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves said investigators believe the attack was targeted and that it may stem from a family dispute, though she did not release details about the victims' identities.

Witnesses described scenes of confusion and terror. Melissa Dunn, who was at the game with her son, said she ran back into the arena when shots rang out and saw paramedics performing CPR in the stands. "You don't know what's going on at first, " she said. "You just hear the loud noises. And we're used to the kids banging on the board with their skates, so we thought it was that at first. "

High school player Olin Lawrence recounted hiding in a locker room after hearing gunfire. "I went down and then I ran, " he said. "We pressed against the door and just tried to stay safe down in there. It was very scary. We were very nervous. It was a lot of shots. "

Suspect identified; quick end to the violence

Chief Goncalves said Dorgan died inside the arena from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. She added that a bystander intervened during the attack and that intervention likely contributed to the swift end of the shooting. Investigators said they will continue to piece together the chain of events and the motive while notifying next of kin.

At least three people were transported for treatment; officials have not released their conditions. The names of the deceased have not been released as authorities work to confirm identities and notify family members.

Community response and investigation

Rhode Island's governor expressed sorrow for the victims and their families, saying the state is grieving once again after recent traumatic events. Local leaders and residents gathered outside the arena in the wake of the shooting, seeking information and offering support to those affected.

Law enforcement investigators are continuing their work at the scene and have appealed for anyone with video or eyewitness information to make that available. The investigation will aim to establish a clear timeline, motive and whether any additional individuals were involved.

The shooting at the Lynch Arena has renewed debate about public safety at youth sporting events and the measures in place to protect players, families and spectators. In the coming days, authorities are expected to release further details as the inquiry progresses and as families are notified.

Filmogaz will follow developments and provide updates as officials release more information.