A third victim has died following last week’s deadly shooting at a Rhode Island hockey rink, police said Wednesday.
The Pawtucket Police Department confirmed that 75-year-old Gerald Dorgan succumbed to injuries he suffered in the Feb. 16 shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena. He had been hospitalized in critical condition since the attack.
Authorities said Robert “Roberta Esposito” Dorgan, 56, entered the arena shortly before 3 p.m. during a high school hockey game and opened fire on his ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, and their adult son, Aidan Dorgan. Both died from their injuries. Gerald Dorgan — Rhonda’s father — was also shot while seated with family members during what was meant to be a Senior Night celebration for another grandson.
Gerald was transported to the hospital alongside his wife, Linda Dorgan, and family friend Thomas Geruso, who were also wounded. Police said Robert Dorgan was subdued by bystanders before turning the gun on himself. He died at the scene.
Gerald’s death brings the total number of people killed in the shooting to four, including the suspected gunman.
Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien called the violence “senseless” in a statement.
“We are heartbroken to learn that another life has been lost as a result of last Monday’s senseless shooting at Lynch Arena,” Grebien said. “Our thoughts and prayers remain with the victim’s family, friends, and all those impacted by this tragic act of violence.”
Police have not publicly identified a motive. Court documents show there had been long-running family conflict. Investigators said multiple firearms and ammunition were later recovered from the suspect’s home in Maine and a storage unit.
The investigation remains ongoing.