Shooter Fatally Targets Ex-Wife and Son at Pawtucket Ice Rink, Police Report
Tragedy unfolded at a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, on Monday, resulting in the deaths of two family members and injuries to three others. The shooter, identified as Robert K. Dorgan, fatally shot his ex-wife, Rhonda L. Dorgan, and their son, Aidan Dorgan, before taking his own life.
Victims and Injuries
The police confirmed the identities of the deceased victims as Rhonda L. Dorgan and Aidan Dorgan. Additionally, Rhonda’s parents, Gerald and Linda Dorgan, along with family friend Thomas Geruso, were also shot and remain in the hospital.
Shooter’s Background
Robert K. Dorgan, aged 56, had a troubled history marked by personal disputes and legal issues. Court documents indicated that Dorgan, who identified as transgender and used the name Roberta, faced multiple lawsuits related to credit card debt that began in 2018. A divorce filed by Rhonda in February 2020 cited “irreconcilable differences” after initially mentioning issues related to gender reassignment surgery.
Domestic Disputes and Legal Troubles
- February 2020: Rhonda accused Dorgan of physical abuse; the case was dismissed.
- Dorgan filed a police complaint against their father-in-law, alleging threats.
- Attorney General’s office dismissed the threat complaint after an investigation.
The Pawtucket Police Chief, Tina Goncalves, spoke about the family’s ongoing disputes but noted that these did not clarify the motivation behind the shooting. Investigators are looking into the events leading up to the shooting, noting no visible confrontation occurred before the incident.
Investigation Status
Police are actively conducting search warrants to gather more information about Dorgan’s motive. The investigation is hindered by the ongoing recovery of the injured victims, whose health status remains unstable.
Conclusion
This tragic incident has left the community in shock. Officials continue their investigation to determine what prompted such violence at a family gathering, highlighting the complexities surrounding domestic disputes and mental health issues.
