Developing... At LEAST Two Dead, Multiple Injured after gunman open fires at high school hockey game

Pawtucket, Rhode Island — February 16, 2026 — A shooting erupted Monday afternoon at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket during a high school boys' hockey game, resulting in at least two deaths — including a young girl and the suspected gunman — and leaving three others hospitalized, according to local officials and multiple news sources.

The incident occurred around 2 p.m. at the indoor ice rink on Andrew D. Ferland Way, where co-op teams including those from Coventry, Johnston, Blackstone Valley, and possibly others were competing. Witnesses described chaos as shots rang out, prompting panicked evacuations. Hockey players, some still in uniform or socks after removing skates, were seen outside the arena hugging tearful family members before being bused away to safety.

The Pawtucket mayor's office confirmed to local affiliate WJAR that a young girl was among the fatalities, though her exact age has not been released. Four individuals were initially reported injured and transported to area hospitals, with updates indicating three remained under treatment as of late afternoon. Authorities stated the shooter died — believed to be from a self-inflicted gunshot wound — and emphasized that no additional suspects were being sought, suggesting the incident is contained.

Law enforcement sources briefed on the matter described the event as potentially domestic in nature, with indications that the gunman may have targeted family members. One school involved, North Providence, noted preliminary information suggesting the incident could relate to parents of a student on one of the co-op teams. Schools such as Coventry, Johnston, and St. Raphael Academy quickly accounted for their students and athletes, confirming none from their immediate communities were harmed beyond the reported victims.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) assisted local and state police, including Rhode Island State Police, in the response. Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee monitored the situation closely and offered support to first responders.

As of late Monday, no motive has been officially disclosed, and the shooter's identity remains unreleased pending family notification and investigation. Officials urged the public to avoid the area as the scene remained active for evidence collection.

Community leaders and school officials expressed profound shock and grief over the violence interrupting what should have been a routine athletic event. Counseling resources are being made available for students, families, and witnesses affected by the tragedy.

This developing story will be updated as more details emerge from authorities.

17GEN4.com