On Monday, a transgender individual suspected of killing two people at an ice rink in Rhode Island shared a post on X, expressing intentions of going “violent.” This came after actor Kevin Sorbo referred to U.S. Representative Sarah McBride of Delaware as male in a post of his own.
McBride identifies as a transgender woman. Robert Dorgan, 56, appeared noticeably upset over Sorbo’s claim, which included a photograph related to the Delaware Democratic Party. Dorgan, who uses the name Roberta Dolgano, responded in a post saying, “Keep bashing us, but no wonder why we become Berserk.”
He later commented on a post by Alex Jones, who described Sorbo’s comments as “creepy.” Dorgan remarked sarcastically, “Hehe (shut up) Alex, don’t be so hurtful about other people. So I wonder why a transgender person would be in Berserk.” This was posted the day before the incident at Pawtucket’s Dennis M. Lynch Arena, where Dorgan allegedly fired a weapon during a hockey game, leading to two fatalities and injuries to three others.
Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Gonsalves stated that this likely stemmed from a targeted family dispute. Video footage captured players diving and fans fleeing as shots erupted in the arena, with numerous gunshots audible alongside screams.
Authorities reported that two people were killed and three injured, while Dorgan ultimately took his own life with the weapon. Investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives indicated that Dorgan shot his wife and their three children before turning the gun on himself, viewing it as a domestic violence incident. The police have not disclosed a motive yet.
McBride issued a statement condemning the violence, describing it as an “horribly evil crime” and extended thoughts to the victims and their families.
Further details from court records reveal Dorgan had ongoing conflicts with family members in recent years, particularly concerning his gender reassignment. In one instance from 2020, he reported to North Providence police that after undergoing surgery, his stepfather insisted he move out due to it.
Court documents also noted prior disputes where Dorgan accused his mother of assault, which led to charges that were later dropped. His stepfather allegedly threatened Dorgan regarding these disputes, with assertions that further retaliation would ensue if he did not withdraw charges.
The tragic events have prompted ongoing investigations, with authorities analyzing video footage and witness statements to establish a clearer timeline of what transpired.
