Police have identified the shooter who opened fire at a high school hockey match in Rhode Island, killing two people and injuring three others.
The targeted shooting took place at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket on Monday (16 February), at around 2:30 pm local time.
Robert Dorgan, who also used the alias Roberta Esposito, shot at their wife and three children before turning the gun on themselves, a source told Fox News. A woman told WCVB that her father was the shooter.
"He shot my family, and he's dead now," the unidentified woman said, adding that Dorgan 'has mental health issues'.
No hockey players were harmed in the shooting, as Coventry player Olin Lawrence thought he heard a balloon pop during the match.
"I was on the ice and I thought it was balloons at first - it was like 'bop, bop,' and I thought it was balloons, but this kept going - and it was actually gunshots," he recalled.
"And after the gunshots, me and my teammates ran right to the locker room and we just bunkered up and we pressed against the door and we tried to stay safe down there.
"But it was very scary, we were very nervous."
“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,” Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien said in a statement.
“Our prayers go out to the victims, their families, and everyone impacted by this devastating incident.
"Pawtucket is a strong and resilient community, but tonight we are a city in mourning. We will stand together to support all those affected in the difficult days ahead, and we will keep the public updated as confirmed facts become available.”
Gov. Dan McKee said: “Our state is grieving again. 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.”
FBI Director Kash Patel said agents with the Boston Division are in Pawtucket and have joined the investigation.
“We will provide state and local law enforcement any and all resources necessary and keep the public updated as we are able,” Patel wrote on X.
“In the meantime, please pray for the victims and their families.”
Kevin Folan, the head of Providence Country Day School, confirmed that students, parents and staff who were at the game were safe.
“We are shocked and saddened by the shooting,” Folan said.
If you're experiencing distressing thoughts and feelings, the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) is there to support you. They're open from 5pm–midnight, 365 days a year. Their national number is 0800 58 58 58 and they also have a webchat service if you're not comfortable talking on the phone.
Topics: US News, Mental Health, Crime
Anish Vij