A “Senior Night” celebration at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, RI, turned into a scene of chaos and mourning yesterday, February 16, 2026. What was meant to be a milestone for high school athletes ended in a targeted act of domestic violence that claimed three lives and left three others fighting for their survival.
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- The Suspect: Police identified the shooter as Robert Dorgan (56), of North Providence. Dorgan died at the scene from a self-inflicted wound.
- The Victims: The attack is being treated as a domestic dispute. Among the deceased are Dorgan’s wife and one of his children. Three others, including two more of Dorgan’s children and a family friend, remain in critical condition.
Key Takeaways from the Investigation
- A Targeted Act: Officials emphasized that this was not a random school shooting but a calculated attack on specific family members within the stands.
- Heroic Intervention: Police Chief Tina Goncalves highlighted the bravery of a bystander who attempted to subdue the gunman, likely saving lives by disrupting the shooter’s focus.
- Community Shock: Coming on the heels of a recent tragedy at Brown University, this event has deeply shaken a community already on edge regarding gun violence.
Immediate Impact and Resources
In the wake of the shooting, the Rhode Island Interscholastic League has halted all scheduled games. Counseling services have been mobilized for the student-athletes and spectators who witnessed the trauma.
| Status | Details |
| Total Fatalities | 3 (including the perpetrator) |
| Injured | 3 (currently in critical condition) |
| Status of Games | Suspended statewide until further notice |
| Motive | Family dispute / Domestic violence |
