Three dead, three critically injured after Rhode Island dad opens fire at youth hockey game

PAWTUCKET, RHODE ISLAND: A quiet afternoon at a Rhode Island youth hockey game turned deadly Monday when gunfire erupted at the Dennis M Lynch Arena, leaving three dead, including the suspected shooter, and three others critically injured. The arena, home to the Johnson & Wales Wildcats, was packed with players, families, and spectators when the chaos unfolded.

Police say the suspect, identified as a father, allegedly shot his wife and three children before turning the weapon on himself. Authorities are still notifying families as the investigation continues.

Chaos erupted as gunfire interrupted the youth hockey game

Around 2:30 pm, officers responded to reports of shots fired. A livestream of the game captured the terrifying scene as roughly 11 gunshots rang out. Athletes and spectators dove for cover, some leaving skates behind, while others jumped barriers to escape to locker rooms.

Witnesses reported that a bystander disarmed the shooter but discovered he had a second weapon. The gunman’s actions have left the community reeling.

Authorities investigate targeted family dispute

Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves told reporters, "Upon arrival, police found two casualties inside the arena, one of whom was the suspect. Another victim later died at the hospital. Three others remain in critical condition."

Goncalves confirmed, "It appears that this was a targeted event, that it may be a family dispute. We cannot release the victims’ names until families have been notified."

Multiple police departments and the state attorney general assisted at the scene. Officials are interviewing witnesses to piece together a clear timeline of the events.

Community reacts to tragedy

Outside the arena, families comforted high school players, some still in their uniforms, as they boarded buses to leave. The incident has shaken the local community, highlighting the devastating impact of gun violence on families and public gatherings.

Authorities continue to investigate the incident and urge anyone with information to come forward.