2 Killed at School Hockey Shooting in Rhode Island

Two people were killed and three others critically injured after a shooting during a high school hockey game in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, on Monday, according to local authorities and NBC News.

Police in Pawtucket said officers were called to the Dennis M. Lynch Arena shortly before 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time following reports of gunfire inside the venue. Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves confirmed that the suspected gunman was found dead at the scene from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Investigators believe the shooting was a targeted incident and may have stemmed from a family dispute, though the exact relationship between the suspect and the victims remains under investigation.

One victim was pronounced dead inside the arena, while a second later died in hospital. Three additional victims were transported to hospital in critical condition with gunshot wounds. Authorities have not yet released the names of those involved.

Chief Goncalves said multiple witnesses are being interviewed and that police are working to verify details before releasing further information. The investigation remains ongoing.

The hockey match was being livestreamed at the time of the shooting. In verified footage, around a dozen gunshots can be heard. Spectators are seen rushing toward exits, while players on the bench drop to the floor. Students on the ice appear initially unaware of the situation before quickly leaving the rink as the gunfire continues. Access to the footage has since been restricted by the streaming platform.

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee said in a social media statement that state police had been deployed to assist local law enforcement and expressed prayers for Pawtucket and all those affected.

School officials also confirmed the safety of students who attended the game. Coventry Public Schools Superintendent Don Cowart stated that all members of the Coventry hockey team were safe and accounted for, with school staff and a Coventry police officer on site coordinating reunification efforts. Providence Country Day School also confirmed that its students and staff who attended the game were safe.

Providence Police said officers had been dispatched to assist and were continuing to monitor the situation.

The shooting has renewed concerns over gun violence at school sporting events in the United States, as authorities work to determine the full circumstances behind the deadly incident.