Disturbing new details are emerging in the wake of the deadly shooting at a Rhode Island ice rink that left multiple family members dead and others fighting for their lives. Authorities have identified the gunman as 56-year-old Robert Kevin Dorgan, who also used the name Roberta Esposito.
Investigators say the attack was a targeted act rooted in a long-running family dispute. The shooting took place February 16, at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket during a high school hockey game.
Police say Dorgan opened fire inside the arena, killing two adults and critically injuring three others before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Among those killed were his ex-wife, Rhonda Lee Dorgan, and their son, Aidan. Rhonda’s parents, Gerald and Linda Dorgan, were also shot and remain in critical condition.
As the investigation unfolds, a troubling family connection has come to light: Robert Dorgan and Rhonda Dorgan were related by blood before they ever married. Court records and census documents reviewed by local outlets show that both shared the Dorgan surname prior to their 1992 marriage because they were first cousins, once removed.
According to the 1950 U.S. Census for Rhode Island, Edward F. Dorgan and his wife, Eva C. Dorgan, lived in Smithfield with their sons Raymond C. Dorgan and Robert J. Dorgan. Robert J. Dorgan later became the father of the shooter, Robert Kevin Dorgan.
Raymond C. Dorgan, meanwhile, fathered Gerald L. Dorgan — Rhonda’s father. That makes Edward F. Dorgan the shooter’s grandfather and Rhonda’s great-grandfather. Put another way, Rhonda’s grandfather was the shooter’s uncle, per to the Providence Journal.
The marriage between Robert and Rhonda Dorgan ended in divorce, and police have indicated that ongoing family tensions may have played a role in the tragedy. Court records and prior reports also note past disputes connected to Dorgan’s gender transition and broader family conflict, though investigators have not yet outlined a full motive.
Authorities say the suspect was at the arena to watch a family member participate in the game. The shooting unfolded in front of spectators, sending parents and students scrambling for safety in what officials described as a targeted attack rather than a random act of violence.
Dorgan was reportedly employed at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, a shipbuilding facility in Maine. Law enforcement agencies continue to examine his background, communications, and any prior warning signs.
Police have not released additional details about what may have immediately triggered the shooting but confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public. A statement released by the Dorgan family’s attorney, Lawrence J. Signore, said the family is fully cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation moves forward.
He added that they are “deeply and profoundly affected” by the shooting. “We are reminded that behind every headline is a family experiencing profound pain and loss,” the statement read. “We care greatly for all families impacted by this recent tragedy and our thoughts are with them.”
“While there are many questions being asked, please know we are focused on all of those who have been injured and whose lives have been forever changed,” the statement continued.
