Tragic Shooting at Rhode Island Ice Rink: One Fatality, Four Injured; Suspect Deceased

By Jusolyn Flower, Eli Sherman, Tim White

Posted: Feb 16, 2026 / 03:41 PM EST

Updated: Feb 16, 2026 / 04:16 PM EST

PAWTUCKET, R.I. — A tragic shooting at a Rhode Island ice skating rink on Monday afternoon resulted in two fatalities, including the suspected shooter, and left four others injured. The incident occurred at the Dennis M Lynch Arena in Pawtucket.

The violence erupted during a hockey game that started at 2 p.m., featuring teams from Coventry and Blackstone Valley Schools. The game was reportedly in progress when the shooting began, sending shockwaves through the community.

The condition of the four victims taken into the hospital wasn’t immediately known. The suspected shooter was identified only as a man. No name or age was given.

One student leaving the rink told Nexstar’s WPRI he heard several “bangs” before people began to run for the exits. An employee at a nearby Walgreens said people came into the pharmacy panicking, saying there was a shooting. The employee called 911 as people sheltered inside the store.

The shooting triggered a massive police response, as law enforcement vehicles surrounded the arena. Shortly after the shooting, a large crowd of hockey players were seen standing outside the arena, some still in their socks after removing their ice skates, before they were taken away.

Gov. Dan McKee said he was aware of the situation and monitoring developments.

Coventry Superintendent Don Cowart sent an email to families after the shooting, saying they were aware of a “serious reported incident” at the arena.

“Information is still developing, and we are actively working with event staff and local authorities to understand the situation,” Cowart wrote.

“We have been informed that students are secured in multiple locations,” he continued. “At this time, we are still working the status and location of all individuals.”