WARWICK, RI – Two men were killed in a shooting at a youth hockey rink in Rhode Island, with authorities identifying both the victims and the suspected gunman in what police are calling a targeted attack.
The shooting occurred during a youth hockey practice session at the Warwick Ice Arena on Saturday evening. Police identified the victims as Michael Thompson, 45, of Cranston, and Robert Martinez, 38, of Providence. Both men were parents of children participating in the hockey program.
The suspected shooter has been identified as James Wilson, 42, of Warwick, who fled the scene immediately after the incident. Wilson remains at large, and police have issued a warrant for his arrest on two counts of murder.
Warwick Police Chief David Manning said the shooting appears to have stemmed from an ongoing dispute between the parties involved, though he declined to provide specific details about the nature of the conflict.
“This was not a random act of violence,” Manning told reporters during a press conference Sunday morning. “Our investigation indicates this was a targeted incident involving individuals known to each other.”
The shooting forced the immediate evacuation of approximately 60 children and adults who were at the facility for various hockey activities. No other injuries were reported, and all children present were safely reunited with their families.
The Rhode Island State Police Major Crimes Unit is assisting with the investigation. Authorities are reviewing security footage from the facility and interviewing witnesses.
The Warwick Ice Arena will remain closed indefinitely while the investigation continues. The facility typically hosts youth hockey leagues and figure skating programs throughout the week.
Anyone with information about Wilson’s whereabouts is urged to contact Warwick Police immediately. He is considered armed and dangerous.
