Hero bystander's account of rhode island shooting highlights 'miracle' that stopped rampage

A quick-thinking spectator says a split-second physical jam of a pistol helped halt a deadly attack at a Rhode Island high school hockey game, limiting casualties before the gunman fatally shot himself. The shooting left two family members dead and several others critically wounded, and has prompted an ongoing investigation into motive and the shooter's past.

How the attack unfolded

The incident occurred on Monday afternoon at an arena where a family had gathered to watch a youth hockey game. The suspect opened fire inside the stands, striking multiple relatives and other spectators. As chaos unfolded, several attendees attempted to subdue the attacker.

One bystander, Michael Black, described leaping toward the shooter and grabbing the weapon. Black said his hand became trapped in the pistol's sliding chamber. That unplanned interference prevented the gun from firing when the shooter tried to continue, at least for a short time, giving others an opportunity to rush in.

Black recounted that after being forced loose and sent into the bleachers, other spectators joined the effort to restrain the assailant. During the struggle the gunman produced a second firearm and fatally shot himself. Investigators later recovered two handguns at the scene: a Glock 10 millimeter and a SIG Sauer P226. Officials noted the weapons and other evidence are part of the active probe.

Victims, motive and investigation

Authorities have characterized the attack as targeted and tied to a family dispute. Two relatives were killed; one died at the hospital and another at the arena. Three other people remain in critical condition, including an older couple and a school assistant principal who was at the rink as a spectator.

Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves briefed the public and said the investigation is ongoing. She described the event as a focused act of violence amid a family gathering and said there was no outward sign beforehand that such an attack was imminent. Investigators recovered both firearms and noted the suspect held a carry license issued in another state.

Court records and interviews with people who knew the shooter sketch a life marked by legal and family conflict, including a divorce finalized in 2021. Family members have said relationships had deteriorated in recent years but told investigators they did not expect violence at the hockey game. Officials have not released detailed information about motive while forensic work and witness interviews continue.

Bystanders credited with saving lives

Witnesses at the scene have been widely praised for their swift action. Black, who says he attempted to grab the weapon as soon as he saw an opening, described the moment his hand jammed the gun as a miracle that likely spared others. He said he ended up face to face with the shooter during the struggle and was preparing to pin him down when the second shot occurred.

Other spectators who intervened played a crucial role in restraining the attacker long enough for the situation to end. Emergency crews quickly treated the wounded at the arena and transported critically injured victims to nearby hospitals. Community leaders and residents have begun organizing support for the injured families as investigators continue to piece together the timeline and motive behind the attack.

Police emphasize the probe remains active and urged anyone with video or firsthand information to make it available to investigators. The community has been left grappling with shock and grief while officials work to provide answers about why a family outing turned deadly.