Fact Check: Was the Rhode Island shooting suspect a transgender?

PAWTUCKET, RHODE ISLAND: Three people were killed, including the suspect, following a recent shooting on Monday, February 16, at the Dennis M Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, during a high school youth hockey game involving co-op teams. Three people were killed, including the suspect.

Following this, a rumor circulated online claiming that the suspect Robert Dorgan, also goes by the name Roberta Esposito, was a transgender person. But is there any truth to this?

Claim: Rhode Island shooting suspect was a transgender

Several social media accounts came up with a post claiming Rhode Island shooting suspect, Robert Dorgan, was transgender.

An X user shared an image for Dorgan and wrote, "This is the Transgender Rhode Island shooting suspect."

The X user also shared in another post, "Transgender Shooter: This is the suspected shooter in the Pawtucket, Rhode Island hockey shooting. Police have identified the suspect as Robert Dorgan, who also went by the name 'Roberta'. His daughter said he had 'mental health issues' and was 'very sick'."

Similarly, another X account mentioned, "Roberta Esposito Rhode Island Transgender Dad Identified as Suspect in Pawtucket Mass Shooting."

Meanwhile, another user wrote, "Roberta is being reported as the shooter in Rhode Island. More trans violence. instead of celebrating them action needs to be taken, they are clearly mentally ill."

Fact Check: Unconfirmed, Pawtucket Police Chief says confirmation awaits

The claims made in the viral posts are not yet confirmed by the officials. The Pawtucket Police Chief confirmed that the suspect in the Hockey Arena Shooting was Robert Dorgan, who was born male and also went by the name of Roberta Esposito.

However, the Police Chief added that it will all be confirmed throughout the investigation and mentioned that the status of the suspect has nothing to do with the investigation.

The shooting took place shortly before 2:30 PM during a hockey game between Coventry Schools and Blackstone Valley Schools. Pawtucket Times reporter Branden Mello mentioned that shots were fired from the stands behind the Blackstone Valley Schools bench.

Following the shooting, a young girl was found dead inside the arena near the shooter, while another victim later succumbed at the hospital.

However, three surviving victims are in critical condition at the Rhode Island Hospital. The hospital confirmed that four patients were transported there, one of whom later died.

A spokesperson told reporters, "Rhode Island Hospital remains fully operational, and there are no ongoing threats, safety concerns, or impact on patient care. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available."

Meanwhile, the hospital added, "Our deepest sympathies are with everyone impacted by this tragic incident.'