Three dead, including suspect, after shooting at high school hockey rink

Two people were killed after shots broke out at a high school hockey game in eastern Rhode Island, according to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves. One victim died at the scene, and one died after being transported to the hospital, Goncalves said. Three more victims were hospitalized with gunshot wounds and remain in critical condition, she added. Police were called to Dennis M. Lynch Arena at around 2:30 p.m. local time and found the suspected shooter dead upon arrival from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, Goncalves said.

What is known about the deceased? The ages and identities of the victims had not been publicly disclosed as of Monday evening. Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien’s office reported that a young girl died during the attack, according to local news outlet WJAR. Goncalves would not confirm the mayor’s statement and described both deceased victims as adults.

What else is known about the shooting? The shooting interrupted a senior night game between high school hockey teams on a school holiday, local outlets reported. One player who was on the ice at the time of the shooting told local news outlet WPRI 12 that he heard about seven shots. The attack appeared to be targeted and part of a family dispute, Goncalves said.

Apparent footage from the livestreamed game began circulating online soon after the incident, and appeared to show spectators ducking in the stands and players scrambling off the ice. Federal agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and FBI officials responded to the incident, according to separate Monday statements. The FBI additionally assured there was no imminent public safety threat. Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee released a statement soon after the incident, offering prayers for everyone involved.