Police authorities have officially identified the individual responsible for a deadly shooting at a high school ice hockey match in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, as 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, who also used the alias Roberta Esposito. The tragic incident occurred on the afternoon of Monday, February 16, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries.
Victims and Injuries Confirmed
According to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, the victims of the shooting were Dorgan's ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, and his adult son, Aidan Dorgan. Both were fatally shot during the attack. In addition to these deaths, three other individuals sustained injuries: the parents of the ex-wife and a family friend who was present at the event.
Shooter's Background and Demise
Robert Dorgan died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following the shooting. Police Chief Goncalves stated that there was no evidence of any prior conversation or confrontation between Dorgan and his relatives before the violence erupted. This detail adds to the mystery surrounding the motives behind the attack.
Dorgan had a brief stint in the Marine Corps in 1988, serving for only a few months before separating with the lowest military rank. More recently, he was employed at a shipbuilding facility in Maine that contracts with the US Navy, where colleagues described him as having a volatile temperament.
Colleagues Describe a Complex Personality
Destiny Mackenzie, a coworker at the shipbuilding facility, told The Associated Press that Dorgan often used the women's restroom and frequently discussed family matters, though his ex-wife was never mentioned. Instead, conversations often revolved around a son who played hockey. Mackenzie noted that Dorgan, who went by Roberta at work, had a bad temper and was known to engage in screaming matches with colleagues.
Another colleague revealed that Dorgan appeared conflicted about transgender acceptance, sometimes expressing pride in transitioning and other times showing embarrassment. This colleague also confirmed that Dorgan owned firearms, though the exact number remains unknown.
Scene of the Shooting
The shooting took place at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, which was hosting matches for several local schools at the time. A livestream of the hockey game captured the chaotic moment when gunshots rang out, causing spectators and players to dive to the floor and seek cover. The streaming platform LiveBarn, which specializes in youth sporting events, has issued warnings on social media against circulating the video without permission.
Investigation and Aftermath
Police are continuing their investigation into the shooting, focusing on Dorgan's background and potential motives. The incident has left the Pawtucket community in shock, raising concerns about safety at public events. Authorities have urged anyone with additional information to come forward as they work to piece together the events leading up to the tragedy.
This case highlights the devastating impact of gun violence in community settings, underscoring the need for ongoing discussions about mental health and firearm regulations. As the investigation progresses, more details may emerge to provide a clearer understanding of what drove Robert Dorgan to commit such a horrific act.
