Authorities in Rhode Island have released disturbing new details about the moments leading up to a deadly shooting inside a local hockey arena, where a father allegedly targeted members of his own family during a high school game.

Police say the attack unfolded Monday night inside the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket during a matchup between Coventry and Blackstone Valley schools. Investigators describe the violence as deliberate and personal, carried out in front of spectators attending a senior night game.

Police Describe A “Very Targeted” Attack

According to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, the suspect, Robert Dorgan, 56, entered the arena and opened fire while family members were seated in the bleachers.

Officials said Dorgan fatally shot his ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, and his son, Aidan Dorgan, before turning the gun on himself.

During a press briefing, Goncalves described the incident as a “very targeted” attack, explaining that Dorgan approached the victims one by one before shooting.

Three additional victims were also wounded in the attack and remain in critical condition. Those injured include Rhonda Dorgan’s parents, Linda Dorgan and Gerald Dorgan, along with a family friend, Thomas Giarrusso.

Suspect Entered Arena Multiple Times

Investigators revealed that the suspect had been seen entering and leaving the arena before the shooting took place.

Authorities say he was carrying two firearms, a Glock 10 mm pistol and a SIG Sauer P226, both of which were purchased legally. However, police are still trying to determine whether he had the weapons during his first entry into the building.

According to investigators, Dorgan’s presence at the event did not initially raise concerns.

Police noted that he had attended his son’s hockey games before, making his appearance at the arena that night seem routine.

No Confrontation Before The Shooting

Officials say the suspect walked toward his family members seated in the bleachers before opening fire. Investigators believe there was no argument or confrontation before the gunfire began.

“There was no indication from the family or friends that any violence was underway, or that they were in fear of this specific individual,” Goncalves said. “… We continue to look into what the motivation was. We’re not sure at this point what the trigger event was that happened yesterday.”

Police are still working to determine what may have sparked the violence.

Bystanders Attempted To Stop The Gunman

During the chaos, several bystanders tried to intervene.

Authorities said at least three people, described as family members or friends of the players, stepped in and briefly stopped Dorgan from continuing the attack.

However, the suspect then reached for a second firearm and fatally shot himself.

The quick actions of those nearby may have prevented further casualties, investigators said.

Background Of The Suspect

Police confirmed that Dorgan identified as transgender and had transitioned in 2020. He reportedly used the names “Roberta Dorgan” and “Roberta Esposito” socially.

Officials also said he was wearing female clothing at the time of the shooting.

Investigators have indicated there had been past family conflict related to his gender identity, though authorities have not concluded whether that played any role in the attack.

Weapons Purchased Legally

Law enforcement officials confirmed that the firearms used in the shooting were legally purchased.

Records show that Dorgan held a license to carry in Florida. However, he was not a resident of Rhode Island.

Police said the suspect was not known to Pawtucket authorities, although “there were some contacts throughout the state.”

Investigation Continues As Motive Remains Unclear

Authorities continue to search for answers as they examine evidence connected to the case.

Police have executed multiple search warrants and are reviewing records related to the suspect’s background and activities leading up to the shooting.

So far, investigators say they have not located a suicide note.

Officials also confirmed that they have not found any links between the suspect and extremist organizations.

For now, investigators remain focused on determining what led to the violence that unfolded inside the packed hockey arena.