Heartbreak in Pawtucket After Deadly Ice Rink Shooting
A deadly shooting during a youth hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island has claimed another life as a critically injured grandfather has died from his wounds, law enforcement confirmed Wednesday. This loss raises the number of family members killed in the incident to three, intensifying the grief across the local community.
Grandfather Dies, Bringing Toll to Three
Authorities report that Gerald Dorgan, who was in critical condition following the February shooting at Dennis M. Lynch Arena, has passed away in hospital. He had initially survived the attack but later succumbed to the injuries he sustained during the shooting that rocked the youth hockey event.
The tragic episode previously took the lives of Rhonda Dorgan, Gerald’s daughter, and her son Aidan Dorgan, both fatally shot in the stands.
Pawtucket’s mayor expressed deep sorrow over the additional fatality, saying the losses have left the community “heartbroken” and extending thoughts and prayers to all affected by the violence.
Shooter Identified and Investigation Continues
Police have identified the shooter as 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, who also died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene. Authorities said he used several different names, including Roberta Esposito and Roberta Dorgano.
Officials believe the attack was targeted at family members. In addition to the fatalities, two other people — Rhonda Dorgan’s mother and a family friend — were injured and hospitalized.
Law enforcement praised bystanders for helping stop the attack, with several people intervening to subdue the shooter as spectators fled the arena.
Community in Mourning and Recovery
Local leaders and residents have rallied around the victims and their families, underscoring the profound impact of the violence on Pawtucket and beyond. Community support efforts continue as details from the ongoing investigation emerge and authorities work to prevent future tragedies.
