Local police officers skated past their firefighter rivals 5-2 Sunday in the 2026 Aquidneck Island Guns ‘N Hoses charity hockey game, held at St. George’s School — claiming their fifth championship in the annual event.

But organizers say the real victory belonged to the Milici family.

The game raised funds for Mary Jane “MJ” Milici of Portsmouth, who is battling a rare disease. Organizers with the Aquidneck Island Police & Fire Hockey Club said the event set record numbers for raffles, donations and attendance.

“The true winners today were the Milici family,” the club wrote in a statement following the game. “We are beyond proud of the communities we serve for showing up in such a powerful way.”

The yearly matchup pits local law enforcement against firefighters on the ice, drawing community members from across Aquidneck Island. Volunteers and partners including members of the Salve Regina University hockey team contributed to making the event possible.

“ONE ISLAND. ONE FIGHT.” the club added.

Organizers said additional details about the funds raised would be forthcoming.

Photo credit: Justin L. Walker Photography

Justin Walker is a Newport County native who specializes in sports, portraits, weddings and events as a freelance photographer around New England. Justin has over a decade of experience starting in college covering high profile events, collegiate and professional sports in Washington, D.C. His photojournalism and freelance work can be seen in various local and national publications. Check out his work at justinlwalkerphotography.com!