A chilling series of online posts revealed a growing rage within the individual accused of a deadly shooting at a Rhode Island ice rink. Just hours before the tragedy, the suspect, identified as Robert Dorgan, expressed a violent sentiment, hinting at an explosive reaction to perceived antagonism.
The catalyst appeared to be a social media exchange sparked by actor Kevin Sorbo’s questioning of Representative Sarah McBride’s gender identity. Sorbo’s post, suggesting McBride is a man, ignited a furious response from Dorgan, who, under the name Roberta Dorgano, warned against pushing the issue, stating, “Keep bashing us. But do not wonder why we Go BERSERK.”
The online outburst didn’t stop there. Dorgan directly confronted Infowars host Alex Jones, who also commented on Sorbo’s post, accusing Jones of being offended by difference and again predicting a violent outcome: “then wonder why trans ppl go fkn BERSERK.” These digital cries for help, or perhaps declarations of intent, preceded a horrific act of violence.
The shooting unfolded during a high school hockey game between Coventry and Blackstone Valley Schools, sending players scrambling for safety and spectators fleeing in terror. Video captured the chaos – a dozen shots ringing out amidst screams as people desperately sought cover. The scene was one of utter panic and devastation.
Two people lost their lives in the attack, and three others suffered critical injuries. The suspect, Robert Dorgan, ultimately died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, bringing a tragic end to the unfolding nightmare. Initial reports indicated a possible “family dispute” as the motive, according to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves.
Investigators later uncovered a far more disturbing picture: a domestic violence incident where the gunman killed his wife and shot three of his children before taking his own life. This revelation painted a harrowing portrait of a deeply troubled individual and a family shattered by violence.
Representative McBride, visibly shaken by the event, issued a statement expressing her horror and offering prayers for the victims and their families. She condemned the act as “horrific and evil,” wishing a grim fate for the perpetrator.
A deeper dive into Dorgan’s past revealed a history of conflict, particularly surrounding his gender transition. Court records detailed a 2020 incident where he reported his father-in-law’s hostility towards his gender reassignment surgery, alleging threats and the use of derogatory language.
The father-in-law was initially charged, but the case was later dismissed. Further complicating matters, Dorgan’s then-wife initially cited his “gender reassignment surgery” and “narcissistic personality disorder traits” in divorce proceedings, before amending the grounds to “irreconcilable differences.”
The divorce was finalized in 2021, with Dorgan residing in Florida and working as a truck driver. Prior to the divorce, in 2020, Dorgan also accused his mother of assault, leading to charges that were subsequently dropped. The conflict with his mother was even referenced in his dispute with his father-in-law, with claims of further retaliation if the assault charges weren’t dropped.
Investigators are meticulously reviewing surveillance footage and witness statements, attempting to construct a complete timeline of the events leading up to the shooting. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked rage, personal struggles, and the potential for online interactions to escalate into real-world violence.
