UPDATE: Brown University has lifted its shelter-in-place order following a deadly shooting on campus that left at least two dead and ten students injured. Authorities confirmed the change early Sunday, July 15, 2023, around 6 a.m., but warned that police activity continues in areas still classified as active crime scenes.
The university advised that while the shelter-in-place has ended, access remains restricted around Minden Hall and nearby buildings. Anyone who leaves this police perimeter will not be permitted to return, according to university officials. Community members are urged to comply with all law enforcement directives as the investigation unfolds.
The chaos erupted Saturday afternoon during final exams, with a gunman opening fire inside a classroom. Witnesses described the suspect as a man in dark clothing, potentially wearing a camouflage mask, who was last seen fleeing the engineering building where the attack occurred. Timothy O’Hara, Deputy Chief of Providence Police, stated that security footage captured the suspect leaving the area, but his face was not discernible.
University President Christina Paxson revealed that among the injured, ten students were confirmed to be among the shooting victims. Additional injuries occurred from fragments of gunfire; however, it remains unclear if that victim was a student.
Investigators are currently working to determine how the shooter accessed the classroom. While some outer doors were unlocked, rooms utilized for exams required badge access, raising questions about security protocols on campus.
As the investigation continues, the university community is reeling from the impact of this tragic event. Officials have not yet released the shooter’s identity or confirmed any arrests, leaving many students and faculty on edge.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for campus safety and the shocking reality of gun violence in educational institutions. Authorities continue to monitor and secure the area while providing updates to the public.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
