Third Relative of Transgender Dad Shooter Dies Nine Days After Rampage at Rhode Island Hockey Game

By Staff Reporter

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A third relative of the man accused of opening fire during a youth hockey game in Rhode Island has died, nine days after the deadly rampage that stunned the local community, authorities confirmed Wednesday.

The suspect, identified by law enforcement as a father involved in a custody dispute, allegedly carried out the shooting inside a crowded ice rink during a weekend game. Officials said multiple victims were struck before police intervened.

Rhode Island State Police said the latest fatality — a relative of the alleged gunman — had been hospitalized in critical condition since the attack. The individual’s name has not yet been released pending notification of extended family.

Investigators have not publicly detailed the motive but confirmed that the suspect had prior domestic tensions and had attended the game before the violence erupted. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as families scrambled for cover inside the arena.

“This was a place where children were supposed to feel safe,” a local official said at a press briefing. “The ripple effects of this tragedy continue to devastate families.”

The suspect was taken into custody at the scene and faces multiple charges, including homicide and attempted murder. Court records indicate prosecutors are seeking to hold him without bail.

Advocacy groups have called for increased security measures at youth sporting events, while community leaders organized vigils to honor the victims.

Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active, including forensic analysis and interviews with witnesses. Additional charges could be filed as the case develops.

For now, the small Rhode Island hockey community continues to mourn, grappling with a tragedy that unfolded in a place once defined by teamwork and celebration.