Three people are dead, including the gunman, and three others are in critical condition following a domestic shooting during a high school hockey game at Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket. Pawtucket police believe the shooter targeted his own family members before turning the firearm on himself.
PAWTUCKET, RI (4-minute read) — A Monday afternoon hockey game at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena turned into a scene of chaos and tragedy. Around 3 p.m., during a scheduled co-op game involving several local schools, a gunman opened fire in the stands, killing two people and wounding three others before fatally shooting himself. Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves confirmed that the incident appears to be domestic in nature, as the shooter was apparently targeting members of his own family.
As Governor, a parent, and a former coach, my heart breaks for the victims, families, students and everyone impacted by the devastating shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket.
Praying for our communities. pic.twitter.com/L3TQlAsNHs
— Governor Dan McKee (@GovDanMcKee) February 16, 2026
The shooting occurred on what was supposed to be a celebratory “Senior Night” for student-athletes. While the stands were filled with parents and families, the students on the ice were fortunately uninjured. Coventry Public Schools and the Blackstone Valley Schools co-op confirmed all their players are accounted for. One 16-year-old goalie described the overwhelming sensation of being on the ice as shots rang out, noting, “You don’t know what it feels like until you’re in it”.
Domestic Violence and Public Safety
A woman who identified herself as the shooter’s daughter confirmed to reporters that her father suffered from mental health issues and had targeted his family. Witnesses described a terrifying scene where bystanders dropped to the ground as numerous shots echoed through the arena. In the immediate aftermath, three survivors were rushed to Rhode Island Hospital in critical condition.
This incident highlights the terrifying reality of domestic violence spilling into public “gun-free” zones like municipal skating rinks. While Pawtucket police continue to investigate the motive and the shooter’s background, the community is left reeling from a violent act that occurred in what should have been a safe space for families.
Safety Tip: Public arenas and skating rinks are “transitional spaces” where security is often minimal. In a high-noise environment like a hockey game, gunshots can easily be mistaken for pucks hitting the glass or fireworks. If you hear unexpected “pops,” do not wait to confirm the source; drop to the floor or seek cover immediately. If you are a concealed carry holder, be aware that many municipal arenas are technically “prohibited” zones depending on local laws, which makes your situational awareness even more critical. Always identify the nearest exit that does not lead through a main lobby, as these are often the primary bottlenecks during a panic.
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