Pawtucket: At least two people were killed, and three others remain in critical condition following a mass shooting at a high school ice hockey game in Pawtucket, authorities confirmed.
The suspected gunman also died, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, who addressed reporters at a news conference. Officials believe the incident may have stemmed from a family dispute, describing it as a targeted attack, though no further details about the suspect or victims have yet been released.
Police said the first emergency call reporting gunfire came in at approximately 2:28 pm local time. Investigators are continuing to reconstruct the sequence of events that led to the shooting.
Heartbroken by today’s tragic events at Dennis M. Lynch Arena. Our thoughts are with the families affected, and we are united as a community in grief and support as authorities continue their investigation. pic.twitter.com/RGUVKxJWvi
— City of Pawtucket RI (@CityofPawtucket) February 17, 2026
Chaos inside arena as shots rang out
Gunfire erupted at the Dennis M Lynch Arena during what was supposed to be a celebratory Senior Night hockey match. Video cited by local media appeared to capture a rapid burst of roughly 13 shots within six seconds, followed by a final shot seconds later from outside the camera’s view.
Spectators, students, and athletes were seen diving to the ground, seeking cover, and fleeing toward exits as panic spread through the arena.
Officials condemn violence
Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien described the tragedy as devastating for the community. Don Grebien remarked that, “What should have been a joyful occasion, with dozens of families, students, and supporters gathered to celebrate Senior Night, was instead marked by violence and fear.”
Federal authorities have joined the investigation. Kash Patel said agents from the Boston Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation were deployed to assist local police. The shooting comes about two months after a separate deadly attack at Brown University in nearby Providence, which left two students dead and nine others wounded following a statewide manhunt.
Located just north of Providence along the Massachusetts border, Pawtucket is home to roughly 75,000 residents and is the fourth-largest city in Rhode Island. Authorities urged anyone with information or video footage of the incident to come forward as the investigation continues.
Police presence remains heightened in the area, while counseling services are being arranged for students, families, and community members affected by the tragedy.
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