PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — A shooting at Brown University on Saturday afternoon left two people dead and at least eight others injured, sparking a massive police response and an ongoing search for the suspect. Authorities have confirmed that no one is currently in custody.
The incident occurred in Brown’s engineering building during final exams, according to the university’s provost. Witnesses described the shooter as a man dressed in black wearing a mask, who was seen leaving the building on foot from the Hope Street side. No weapon has yet been recovered. Officials caution that the number of victims may change as the investigation continues.
Providence Mayor Smiley confirmed the fatalities and said that the injured are in critical but stable condition. Governor Dan McKee joined Mayor Smiley at a briefing, calling the event “unthinkable” for Rhode Island.
Earlier in the evening, authorities briefly detained a person of interest, but that individual was later released after investigation. Providence Police Commander Timothy O’Hara urged residents near the scene to check home security cameras for footage that may aid the investigation.
President Trump, speaking briefly at the White House, expressed condolences for the victims, calling it a “terrible thing” and encouraging prayers for those affected.
Students and residents in the area were advised to shelter in place as law enforcement continues the search for the suspect. Authorities are actively investigating the scene, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
This tragic event has shaken the Brown University community and the city of Providence, highlighting the urgent need for vigilance and safety measures on campus and in public spaces.