rhode island shooting: Bystander Tackles Shooter at Pawtucket Ice Rink, Two Killed
Two people were killed and several others wounded Monday afternoon (ET) when a man opened fire during a high school hockey tournament at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket. Spectators and players scrambled for cover before bystanders restrained the gunman, who later died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
How the attack unfolded
The shooting began in the packed arena during a tournament when a 56-year-old man, identified by officials as Robert Dorgan — who also used the name Roberta Esposito — opened fire on family members in the stands. Witnesses initially mistook the first shots for popping balloons; the sound soon registered as gunfire. Dorgan fatally shot his ex-wife, 52-year-old Rhonda, and their 23-year-old son, Aidan. Two other family members and a friend sustained serious injuries.
People in the rink reacted instantly, diving for cover and helping others to safety. More than one witness described the chaos as parents, players and spectators sought exits while some remained to help the injured. Multiple law enforcement officials at the scene later said the attack appeared to be targeted toward specific family members rather than a random act.
Bystanders intervene, shooter subdued
A man in the crowd leapt from the bleachers and lunged at the shooter, grabbing for the weapon. That bystander — who later received stitches for wounds sustained while disarming the attacker — said his hand became trapped in the gun’s chamber, preventing additional shots. Other members of the crowd joined to restrain the shooter; during the struggle, additional magazines and loose ammunition reportedly fell from his possession.
While the gunman was being held down, he managed to draw a second firearm and fatally shot himself. Emergency personnel rendered aid to the wounded and transported them to nearby hospitals. Witnesses and officials praised the actions of the people who grappled with the shooter, saying their intervention prevented further loss of life.
One of the bystanders who stepped in declined to claim the label of hero, saying he was reacting to protect others. He described the moments of hesitation before confronting the shooter, then acting instinctively to neutralize the threat. He sustained a burn from an ejected shell and received nine stitches to his hand where he had grabbed the weapon.
Official response and next steps
Local law enforcement identified the scene and cordoned off the arena while investigators processed evidence, including the firearms recovered at the scene: a Glock 10mm and a SIG Sauer P226, along with additional magazines. Police briefings noted the investigation will continue to focus on motive and the precise sequence of events that led to the deaths and injuries.
City leaders expressed gratitude to the spectators who intervened and to first responders for their swift actions. Officials urged anyone with video or information from the arena to come forward to assist investigators. Counseling and support services were mobilized for students, families and community members affected by the shooting.
This incident has left a community reeling — a routine school sporting event that turned tragic within minutes. Authorities continue to investigate, and more details are expected as the inquiry advances and family notifications are completed.
