Pawtucket Tragedy: Robert Dorgan, “Post-Op” Transgender Man, Fatally Shoots Family at High School Hockey Game

 The Pawtucket, Rhode Island, community continues to process the shocking events of February 16, when Robert Dorgan, a 56-year-old transgender man who also went by Roberta Esposito, fatally shot his ex-wife, Rhonda Dorgan, and an adult daughter at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena during a high school boys’ hockey game, wounding three others before dying by suicide. Authorities described the shooting as the result of a targeted family dispute, and officials from the FBI and ATF assisted in the investigation.

Court records indicate Dorgan underwent gender reassignment surgery around 2020, which was initially cited in his divorce filing along with personality issues before being amended to irreconcilable differences. Newly surfaced social media posts reveal he identified as “post-op” and expressed strong support for former President Donald Trump and Rep. Thomas Massie, while also voicing political opinions that included backing other conservative figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and commenting on sensitive topics, including youth transitions.

Analysis of Dorgan’s online activity shows he advocated for acceptance of transgender people within conservative circles but opposed what he considered extreme positions. On X, under the handle @Tgirlcuda, he posted warnings to critics hours before the shooting, signaling a volatile state of mind. His daughter described him as mentally ill and confirmed the tragic events, stating, “My father shot my family,” outside Pawtucket police headquarters.

The shooting has left the community, students, and spectators traumatized. Witnesses reported chaos in the arena as players dove for cover and spectators fled, with one parent briefly disarming Dorgan before he fired again with a second weapon. Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves confirmed the targeted nature of the attack, noting that the investigation continues with authorities reviewing evidence to understand the full sequence of events.

Family members and community supporters have launched a GoFundMe to assist the surviving children of the victims, providing for living expenses, tuition, and other essentials. The fundraiser reflects widespread grief and solidarity from both the local hockey community and donors nationwide, highlighting the collective effort to support those left behind by the tragedy.

This incident underscores the devastating consequences of unresolved family conflict and mental health struggles. As the Pawtucket community mourns Rhonda Dorgan, her daughter, and the others affected, attention is focused on healing, supporting the survivors, and ensuring safety in public spaces. The events serve as a sobering reminder of the complex intersections of family, mental health, and social pressures in tragic acts of violence.