robert dorgan accused in deadly Pawtucket arena shooting that killed ex-wife and son
Authorities say a shooting at a community hockey arena in Pawtucket on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 (ET), left three dead and three others wounded. The accused shooter, identified as 56-year-old robert dorgan, is alleged to have targeted family members during the incident. Local friends and relatives are struggling to reconcile the violence with memories of the woman at the center of the tragedy.
Details of the shooting and victims
Police located victims inside the Dennis M. Lynch Arena after the attack. Among those killed were 52-year-old Rhonda Dorgan and her 23-year-old son, Aidan Dorgan. Three additional people were injured, including Rhonda’s parents and a family friend who works as an assistant principal at a nearby high school. Investigators believe family members were the intended targets, though investigators have not yet established a motive.
Officials say the suspect later turned the gun on themself and was found at the scene. The suspect has also been known to use the name Roberta Esposito. Law enforcement agencies are continuing to piece together the timeline of events, interview witnesses who were present at the game and collect evidence from the arena as part of an ongoing investigation.
Authorities declined to provide a full timeline of the attack while forensic work and witness interviews are underway. Community safety officials have urged anyone with additional information to come forward so investigators can establish a clearer picture of what led to the violence.
Community reaction: "calm in the storm"
Friends and neighbors described Rhonda Dorgan as a steady, joyful presence in their circle. Many who knew her through daughter-focused activities — including dance competitions and youth sports — recalled a person who kept group morale high during stressful travel and busy schedules.
Friends said Rhonda was the one people turned to in a crisis. "She made everyone feel comfortable and loved, " one longtime friend said. Others recalled her infectious laugh and constant encouragement for the children in the group, painting a portrait of a devoted mother and dependable friend whose loss has left a palpable void.
Members of Rhonda’s social circle gathered on Wednesday night, Feb. 18, 2026 (ET), to look through photographs and share memories. In conversations with local journalists, friends emphasized that her energy and support for others made her the emotional center of their group — a role now mourned across the community.
Investigation and unanswered questions
Investigators continue to examine why the attack occurred and whether preexisting family conflicts played a role. While authorities have said family members appear to have been targeted, they have not released further findings about motive or any possible warning signs that could have foreshadowed the violence.
Officials are also reviewing emergency response procedures and how bystanders and arena staff reacted during the attack. Community leaders have signaled plans to convene support services for victims’ families and for those who witnessed the shooting, including counselors and school officials working with affected students and staff.
As the investigation proceeds, residents are left grappling with a complex mix of grief and the need for answers. For the friends and family who gathered in the days after the attack, memories of Rhonda’s calm presence and tireless support are offering a small measure of comfort amid continuing shock.
