Two people were killed and three others critically injured Monday after a shooter opened fire inside a packed high school hockey game at Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, authorities said.
The suspected shooter has been identified as Roberta Esposito of North Providence, a trans woman who police said was born Robert Dorgan. Officials said the shooter is also dead from what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The violence erupted during a senior night game at Dennis M. Lynch Arena, where families and students had gathered to celebrate. A heavy police presence surrounded the rink Monday afternoon, with crime scene tape blocking entrances.
Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien called the shooting “a terrible tragedy and an act of senseless violence.”
“Family and friends were gathered today at a hockey game … to celebrate senior night,” Grebien said. “Instead, an act of senseless violence has taken the lives of two innocent victims, with the suspect taking his own life.”
Three additional victims remain hospitalized at Rhode Island Hospital and are “fighting for their lives,” the mayor said. More than 100 witnesses have been interviewed.
Police Chief Tina Goncalves said the suspect entered the arena to watch a family member play before opening fire. Authorities recovered firearms at the scene.
A bystander intervened as shots rang out, helping bring the incident to a rapid end.
“A good Samaritan stepped in and interjected in this scene, and that’s probably what led to a swift end of this tragic event,” Goncalves said. Police were not involved in the suspect’s death.
The New England Patriots and Boston Bruins were among the professional teams expressing condolences as the community grapples with the tragedy.
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