PAWTUCKET R.I., The suspect in Monday’s shooting at a Pawtucket ice rink that left two people dead and three others critically injured had a documented history of family disputes, according to court records reviewed following the tragedy.
Authorities identified the gunman as Robert K. Dorgan, 56, who also used the name Roberta Esposito. Police allege that Dorgan opened fire inside Dennis M. Lynch Arena during a high school “Senior Night” hockey game at approximately 2:30 p.m. Monday.
At least two individuals — described by officials as a family member and a family friend — were killed.
Three additional people were transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
Police said Dorgan died at the scene from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
During a late-night news conference, Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves confirmed that Dorgan had used the name Roberta Esposito and said investigators are reviewing the suspect’s background as part of the ongoing investigation.
Court documents show that Dorgan previously reported family-related conflicts to law enforcement.
In early 2020, Dorgan contacted the North Providence Police Department and reported that he had recently undergone gender reassignment surgery. According to police reports referenced in court records, Dorgan claimed his father-in-law wanted him to leave a North Providence residence following the procedure.
Dorgan further alleged that his father-in-law threatened him if he did not move out. Court records indicate the father-in-law was charged at the time with intimidation of witnesses and obstruction of the judicial system. Prosecutors later dismissed those charges.
Additional filings show that Dorgan accused his mother of assault and disorderly conduct during a separate family dispute. She was charged in connection with that complaint; however, the case was ultimately dismissed.
Dorgan’s gender identity was also referenced in divorce documents filed in 2020 by his ex-wife, Rhonda. Initial language in the petition referenced gender reassignment surgery and personal issues, but the grounds were later amended to cite “irreconcilable differences.”
The divorce was finalized in June 2021.
Authorities have not formally released the identities of the victims. Multiple sources indicated that Dorgan’s former spouse is believed to be among those killed.
Investigators are also reviewing online posts and social media activity believed to be associated with Dorgan. Law enforcement officials have not confirmed the authenticity of specific accounts but said they are examining material that reportedly contained concerning language in the days before the shooting.
Officials have not publicly confirmed whether any online activity is directly connected to a motive.
Chief Goncalves said Dorgan entered the arena during the Senior Night matchup between a Coventry–Johnston cooperative team and a Blackstone Valley co-op team made up of players from St. Raphael Academy, Providence Country Day School, North Providence, and North Smithfield.
According to authorities, Dorgan opened fire from the stands about 30 minutes after the game began.
Livestream video captured the sound of multiple gunshots, prompting players and spectators to flee. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as families and students rushed to exit the arena.
Police said a bystander intervened during the incident in an attempt to stop the shooter. Chief Goncalves credited the individual’s actions with potentially preventing additional casualties.
Officers arrived within approximately 90 seconds of receiving the initial report of gunfire, according to the chief.
None of the players on the ice were physically injured, though many witnessed the incident.
Authorities have interviewed more than 100 witnesses and are asking anyone with additional video footage or information to contact law enforcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is assisting local authorities.
“We’re looking at all avenues,” Chief Goncalves said, noting that investigators are working to determine a clear motive. “It’s going to be a very busy 24 to 48 hours.”
Officials have described the shooting as stemming from a family dispute. The exact circumstances leading up to the violence remain under investigation.
Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien called the incident devastating, saying it disrupted what was meant to be a celebratory event.
“What should have been a joyful occasion, with dozens of families, students and supporters gathered to celebrate Senior Night, was instead marked by violence and fear,” Grebien said.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee also addressed the tragedy, offering condolences to the victims and their families and encouraging residents in need of support to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
“Our state is grieving again,” McKee said. “As governor, a parent and a former coach, my heart breaks for the victims, families, students and everyone impacted by the devastating shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket.”
State officials said additional mental health resources will be made available to students and families affected.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have indicated that further details will be released as they are confirmed.
