FLASH — A shooting at the Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, on Feb. 16, 2026, left three people dead and three others critically injured, officials said. Police believe one of the deceased was the suspected shooter.
What happened
The shooting took place during a youth hockey game just outside Providence, in a city that hugs the Massachusetts border. Witnesses described sudden chaos as spectators scattered and players hurried off the ice. Emergency crews arrived quickly; three victims were taken to local hospitals in critical condition.
What investigators say
Police described the attack as targeted, not random, and are treating a possible family dispute as a primary lead. Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves said the suspected shooter was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. She did not release the names or ages of those killed. At least two of the victims appear to be adults, officials added.
Detectives have collected multiple witness statements and secured video from inside and outside the arena. Forensic teams are reviewing surveillance footage and unverified social-media clips that show people diving for cover. Authorities are piecing together a timeline to determine exactly what happened and why. No arrests have been announced.
On the scene
Outside the rink, family members, high school athletes in team uniforms and other onlookers were visibly shaken. Police closed nearby roads and maintained a large presence while helicopters hovered overhead. Investigators interviewed attendees at the perimeter as they processed the scene; recorded footage and crowd statements will be central to the probe.
Community reaction and support
Local leaders expressed grief and frustration over another episode of gun violence. Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien called the attack particularly tragic because it occurred at a community gathering with teenagers and families present. Volunteers, civic groups and local institutions mobilized to assist those affected while officials worked to notify next of kin.
Connection to other incidents
Authorities said the Pawtucket shooting appears unrelated to recent deadly incidents at Brown University and a separate faculty fatality elsewhere in the state; there is no confirmed link. Still, the close timing of these events has heightened unease and renewed calls from residents and leaders for stronger preventive measures and expanded violence-prevention programs.
What’s next
Investigators will continue interviews, video analysis and forensic work to reconstruct the sequence of events and establish a motive. Officials urged anyone with footage or information to come forward to help the inquiry. Pawtucket police, with state law enforcement partners, said they will provide updates as evidence is processed and families are notified.
Local response
Schools, youth organizations and counseling services have been deployed to support players, families and others affected by the shooting at Dennis M. Lynch Arena. Those services remain available as the investigation continues.
Note: This is a developing story. Officials say further updates may follow as inquiries progress.