Three individuals have lost their lives, and multiple others have sustained injuries, including three in critical condition, following a shooting incident at an ice skating venue in the United States, as per local reports.
The indoor rink at the Dennis M Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, was swiftly attended by emergency services after receiving reports of a shooter. The Pawtucket mayor’s office indicated that during a high school hockey game, a “young girl” was fatally shot, and four individuals were wounded, with three in critical condition. The alleged shooter is reported to have also perished.
Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves disclosed that two adult victims had died, and three individuals were in critical condition, in what authorities suspect was a targeted shooting, potentially stemming from a family dispute. The suspect was found deceased at the scene, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Describing the shooting as “tragic” yet “an isolated incident,” Mayor Don Grebien expressed his condolences.
Chief Goncalves mentioned that one of the deceased was a woman, and the suspect was male. The second victim passed away after being taken to the hospital. Names have not been disclosed as of now.
A video captured during a live-stream of the game displayed the chaotic scene as rapid gunfire interrupted the ice play, with 14 shots ringing out in quick succession.
Witnesses observed players and attendees fleeing the ice rink and stands to seek safety from the gunfire.
An employee at a nearby Walgreens recounted that individuals rushed into the store in a panic, reporting gunfire. The employee promptly called 911, leading to an evacuation of the premises as people sought shelter inside.
The incident occurred during a high school hockey match involving teams composed of players from various regional schools.
Authorities from Coventry Public Schools and Providence Country Day have confirmed the safety of all their student athletes.
Following the shooting, a significant presence of ambulances, police, and federal officials descended on the arena, where the violent episode unfolded during a live-streamed game.
The FBI’s Boston branch acknowledged the incident and offered support to local law enforcement agencies, emphasizing the absence of an immediate threat to public safety and urging people to avoid the area.
The thoughts and prayers of officials are with the affected individuals in the aftermath of this tragic event.
