Rhode island shooting at ice rink leaves ex-wife and her son dead, police say
Police in Rhode Island are investigating a fatal shooting at an ice rink that left an ex-wife and her young son dead. Authorities say the attack appeared to be targeted and unfolded at a public skating facility, where witnesses and first responders were confronted with a chaotic scene.
What investigators say happened
Local law enforcement responded to 911 calls after gunfire erupted at an indoor ice-skating facility. Officers found two victims at the scene — a woman identified as the shooter’s former spouse and a child — who were pronounced dead. Police have described the incident as a deliberate attack focused on those victims.
Investigators have not released the victims’ names, citing the need to notify next of kin. Authorities are conducting interviews with witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage from the rink to reconstruct the sequence of events. Forensic teams were at the scene collecting evidence and canvassing nearby businesses and residences for additional information.
Investigation, motive and community reaction
Police say investigators are probing the relationship between the suspect and the deceased as they work to determine a motive. Law enforcement officials have indicated that domestic issues are among the lines of inquiry, and detectives are examining the suspect’s background, recent communications and any history of complaints or restraining orders.
Members of the community expressed shock and grief after news of the shooting spread. The rink remained closed while investigators processed the scene and leaders urged anyone with video or information to come forward. Officials also ramped up patrols in the area in the hours after the incident to reassure residents and ensure public safety.
Mental health and victims’ services were mobilized to support family members, witnesses and first responders affected by the tragedy. Local leaders called for calm and emphasized the importance of allowing investigators to complete their work while the community grieves.
Broader context and next steps
Officers say the probe remains active and that additional details will be released as they are confirmed. Detectives are coordinating with regional law enforcement partners to follow leads outside the immediate area and to verify the suspect’s recent movements.
Authorities also urged the public to avoid speculation and to rely on official updates from investigators. Anyone with information about the incident or who may have captured video of the scene has been asked to contact police to assist the inquiry.
The shooting at the ice rink underscores ongoing concerns about targeted acts of violence in public places and has renewed conversations locally about protective orders, threat assessment and support for survivors of domestic abuse. Law enforcement reiterated that community tips can be vital in preventing further harm and aiding prosecutions in complex cases.
As the investigation continues, officials plan to hold a news briefing to provide an updated timeline and further information on the victims, the suspect and any charges that may follow. In the meantime, the community mourns the loss of two lives and waits for answers about why the attack occurred.
