Police were called to the Dennis M Lynch Arena where it is believed a high school ice hockey game was being played
Multiple individuals have been shot after a gunman reportedly opened fire inside a busy ice skating rink in the US this afternoon (February 16).
Officers were called to the shooting at Dennis M Lynch Arena in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, where a high school ice hockey match is believed to have been taking place.
Unconfirmed reports suggest some of those injured may be children. The exact number of casualties remains unclear at this stage.
Social media posts indicate the gunman discharged his weapon from behind the spectator seating area of one of the high school teams.
News outlet Target 12 reports that a Walgreens employee rushed into the store in a state of panic. They contacted 911 and permitted people to shelter inside the premises, reports the Daily Star.
A significant police presence is currently in the area, although the status of suspected shooter is still unknown.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives’ (ATF) Boston Field Division has spoken about the incident and told people to “avoid the area.”
They wrote on X: “ATF agents are responding to a reported shooting in Pawtucket, RI, to assist state and local authorities. The public should avoid the area and follow the directions of Pawtucket police.”