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Robert Dorgan family: All we know about ex-wife Rhonda Dorgan and children after Pawtucket mass shooting

Authorities identified Robert Dorgan, 56, as the shooter in a targeted incident at a Pawtucket hockey arena, resulting in three deaths.

Published on: Feb 17, 2026 6:16 PM IST
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Authorities have identified the person responsible for the shooting at the hockey arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, as 56-year-old Robert Dorgan, who was also known by the name Roberta Esposito.

Following Pawtucket shooting, Robert Dorgan, 56, was named as the shooter in a deadly incident at a hockey arena during a youth game. (X/@VerdadEsPoder)
Following Pawtucket shooting, Robert Dorgan, 56, was named as the shooter in a deadly incident at a hockey arena during a youth game. (X/@VerdadEsPoder)

According to officials, three individuals, including the suspect, lost their lives in what has been described as a "targeted" shooting that occurred during a youth hockey game. Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves reported that three other victims are currently hospitalized in critical condition. She further stated that the suspect succumbed to an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Goncalves publicly named Dorgan, who was present at an arena to attend a family member's hockey game, during a press conference on Monday night.

Officials have stated that the shooting seemed to be intentional and originated from a familial conflict. Goncalves mentioned on Monday evening that one individual involved was referred to as a "family friend," although she did not clarify if that person was among those who were killed or injured.

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Rhonda Dorgan's divorce with Rhonda Dorgan and their kids

Dorgan's ex-spouse, Rhonda Dorgan, initiated divorce proceedings in 2020. The initial court documents reportedly mentioned "gender reassignment surgery" and "personality disorder traits" as the basis for the divorce, although these reasons were subsequently changed to "irreconcilable differences." The divorce was finalised in June 2021.

During the legal proceedings, records show that Dorgan resided in Jacksonville, Florida, and was employed as a truck driver. The couple had at least three children together. Authorities have not disclosed the names of the children publicly, but reports indicate that one son was a senior at North Providence High School and a hockey player who was present during the shooting incident.

An adult daughter later communicated with media outlets, characterizing her father as someone who had long-term mental health issues. Another adult child, referred to in some reports as a daughter, was among those who were tragically shot.

  • Shweta Kukreti
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Shweta Kukreti

    Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More

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