Pawtucket Active Shooter-Lynch Arena – Op-Ed by Steven O’Donnell

Submitted as an op-ed by Steven O’Donnell

The people of Rhode Island once again confronted the unthinkable. On February 16th, a mass shooting occurred at the Lynch Arena in Pawtucket which claimed four innocent lives and left two more injured. This tragedy comes just two months after the December 13, 2025 shootings/murders at Brown University that left two dead and nine people wounded. These events have shaken communities to their core with many intended and unintended consequences. In the midst of heartbreak and fear, we have also witnessed extraordinary leadership, professionalism, and compassion, qualities that deserve recognition.

As a former State Police Superintendent and Commissioner of the Rhode Island Department of Public Safety, I have spent my career observing law enforcement agencies under pressure. I know what it looks like when a department is tested, and what it takes to respond effectively in moments of chaos.

What unfolded in Pawtucket on February 16th was a coordinated, disciplined, and remarkable example of modern policing. Mayor Donald Grebien, Police Chief/Public Safety Director Tina Goncalves, along with the dedicated members of the Pawtucket Police & Fire Departments and their partners, demonstrated the highest standards of public service during one of the darkest nights in the city’s history.

The immediate response was nothing short of exemplary. Hundreds of terrified children, families, athletes, and spectators were ushered to safety with remarkable speed and care. Officers secured the scene, established order, and ensured that no additional threats remained. In situations like this, every second matters. The swift actions of the Pawtucket Police Department with civilian assistance undoubtedly prevented further loss of life.

Equally commendable was the seamless coordination with state agencies, school officials, and hospital partners. Communication during a mass‑casualty event is often one of the greatest challenges, yet Pawtucket’s leadership ensured that every relevant entity was informed quickly and accurately. Rhode Island Hospital, recognizing the severity of the situation, initiated a temporary lockdown to protect patients and staff. Participating schools were notified immediately that all athletes were safe and accounted for, an essential reassurance for parents and families anxiously awaiting news.

After the emergency response, in the hours and days that followed, the School Department and Mayor’s office mobilized additional counseling and support services for students, families, school employees, and community members. This commitment to healing reflects a deep understanding that trauma does not end when the crime scene is cleared. It lingers in classrooms, homes, and in the hearts of those who lived through the fear and uncertainty of that night. Pawtucket’s leaders recognized this and acted with empathy and foresight.

Chief Tina Goncalves deserves particular praise. Her steady leadership, clear communication, and unwavering focus on public safety, guided her department through an extraordinarily complex incident. She and her officers embodied the professionalism that Rhode Islanders expect and deserve from their police. Their work stands as a testament to the value of training, preparation, and a deep commitment to community.

As Rhode Island grapples with the emotional aftermath of two mass shootings, we must recognize our grief and resilience. While others left the building seeking safety, our police were running towards the threat to minimize casualties. It’s important to recognize the individuals and institutions that rise to meet these challenges. The Pawtucket Police responded and displayed a confidence in their abilities that was professional, compassionate, coordinated, and selfless.

In moments of crisis, leadership matters! The citizens of Pawtucket were served well by their first responders and those who led the public disclosures of such a horrible and tragic event. The people of Pawtucket and the entire state should be grateful and recognize Mayor Grebian, Chief Goncalves, the civilians who took action, the medical teams and the entire public safety apparatus.

I offer my sincere appreciation for your effort!

Steven G. O’Donnell

Former Superintendent, Rhode Island State Police; Commissioner of the Rhode Island Department of Public Safety & United States Marshal for the District of Rhode Island; Salve Regina Adjunct Professor