Family Dispute Turns Deadly at High School Tournament
Chaos erupted at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket when 56-year-old Robert Dorgan opened fire in the stands during a high school hockey game. Police described it as a targeted family dispute.
Two people were killed. Three remain in critical condition.
Dorgan allegedly shot his wife, their three children, and a family friend before taking his own life. Witnesses initially thought the gunfire was balloons popping. Players scrambled. Parents barricaded locker rooms. CPR was performed in the stands.
A bystander reportedly wrestled one weapon away, but the shooter had another.
The FBI is assisting the investigation. Officials say the community is grieving.
The tragedy raises uncomfortable questions about domestic violence warning signs, public venue security, and mental health intervention failures.
How does a personal family dispute escalate into a public massacre in broad daylight?
👉 What needs to change, gun access laws, mental health systems, or both?
Transparency notes
Published: Feb 18, 2026. No major post-publication update has been logged.
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Sources
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