PAWTUCKET, RHODE ISLAND — A third victim has died following the deadly shooting that erupted during a high school hockey game at Dennis M. Lynch Arena, authorities confirmed.
Gerald Dorgan, 75, died nine days after being critically wounded in the February 16 attack inside the Pawtucket arena. He had been transported to Rhode Island Hospital in critical condition alongside his wife, Linda Dorgan, and family friend Thomas Geruso, who were also injured during the incident.
Shooting During Senior Night Game
The violence unfolded during a Senior Night matchup at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena, where players, families, and community members had gathered for what was meant to be a celebratory evening.
Investigators identified the gunman as Robert Dorgan, 56, who also went by Roberta Esposito. Authorities say he opened fire on members of his own family seated in the stands during his son’s hockey game.
Officials described the shooting as a targeted, family-related incident.
After the attack, the gunman took his own life.
Victims Identified
The three victims who died as a result of the February 16 shooting are:
- Rhonda Dorgan, 52
- Aidan Dorgan, 23
- Gerald Dorgan, 75
Rhonda Dorgan was the shooter’s ex-wife. Aidan Dorgan, 23, was their son. Gerald Dorgan, who later succumbed to his injuries, was Rhonda’s father and Aidan’s grandfather.
Authorities confirmed all three victims died from injuries sustained in the arena shooting.
Community in Shock
The shooting sent shockwaves through Pawtucket and the broader Rhode Island hockey community. The incident unfolded in front of spectators, including students, parents, and local supporters gathered for the game.
What began as a night honoring senior players quickly turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy inside one of the city’s well-known sports venues.
Law enforcement officials have characterized the attack as isolated and family-related, but the emotional toll on the school community and attendees remains significant.
Ongoing Impact
With Gerald Dorgan’s death, the number of victims has risen to three, marking a devastating outcome for one family and the Pawtucket community.
Counseling resources and support services have been made available as residents continue to process the traumatic event.
The Feb. 16 shooting at Dennis M. Lynch Arena stands as one of the most heartbreaking incidents to strike a local school sports event in Rhode Island in recent memory.
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