The New England Patriots released a powerful and emotional statement Tuesday night (February 18, 2026) in response to the tragic shooting at Dennis M. Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, during a youth hockey game on Monday afternoon. The incident left three people dead—including the suspect—and three others hospitalized in critical condition.
Patriots Release Statement After Deadly Shooting (Breaking News)
The shooting occurred around 2 p.m. during a scheduled Rhode Island Interscholastic League boys’ hockey game involving a Coventry/Johnston co-op team and Blackstone Valley Schools co-op.
According to Pawtucket Police Chief Tina Goncalves, the event was a “targeted incident” stemming from a possible family dispute. The suspect, identified in court documents obtained by WPRI as a transgender individual who underwent gender reassignment surgery in 2020, allegedly opened fire inside the arena before dying by suicide.
Footage from inside the arena captured the chaos: players, coaches, parents, and spectators fleeing in panic as gunshots rang out. The arena was evacuated, and nearby businesses (including a Walgreens) went into lockdown.
A statement from the New England Patriots. pic.twitter.com/ygbfeKhCoq
https://twitter.com/Patriots/status/2023564452675699156?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2023564452675699156%7Ctwgr%5E6a23881fef997915af99c1a7fcb6a816e84bee68%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fgridironheroics.com%2Fpatriots-shooting-kills-three-statement%2F
Patriots’ Official Statement
The Patriots, whose Super Bowl LX loss to the Seattle Seahawks was just 10 days prior, issued the following statement via their official channels:
“The New England Patriots organization is heartbroken by the tragic shooting at Lynch Arena in Pawtucket that took the lives of innocent people, including a young child, during what should have been a joyful youth hockey game. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, the first responders, and the entire Rhode Island community during this unimaginable time. We stand united against violence in all forms and support efforts to keep our children safe in schools, arenas, and public spaces. The Patriots extend our deepest condolences and offer any support we can provide to those affected.”
The statement was widely shared on social media and praised by fans for its directness and compassion, especially given the proximity to Rhode Island and the involvement of youth sports.
Details of the Shooting
- Victims: One confirmed fatality was an 11-year-old girl (a cheerleader attending the game); two adults also died (including the suspect).
- Injured: Three others were hospitalized in critical condition (ages and conditions not released as of February 18 evening).
- Suspect: Court documents reveal the shooter had gender reassignment surgery in 2020. Family and acquaintances reportedly noted behavioral changes and increasing instability afterward, though no prior criminal record or public threats were mentioned.
- Motive: Police are investigating a possible domestic/family dispute. No terrorism or hate-crime angle has been suggested.
The Rhode Island Interscholastic League canceled remaining games and events, and counseling services were made available to students, players, and families from the affected schools.
This tragedy has reignited national conversations about gun violence, youth safety at sporting events, and mental health support. The Patriots’ swift and heartfelt response reflects their long-standing community ties in New England, where Rhode Island falls within their primary fanbase.
Our thoughts remain with the victims, families, and the Pawtucket/Rhode Island community. If you or someone you know needs support:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
Stay tuned for updates as the investigation continues. Share your thoughts respectfully below.
