BREAKING: A devastating shooting incident at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, has left at least 2 people dead and 8 others critically injured, according to university officials. The situation, which unfolded earlier today, has led to an urgent response from law enforcement and a shelter-in-place order for students and staff.
Authorities confirmed the shooting occurred at around 2:00 p.m. ET in the Barus and Holley building, which houses classrooms and labs for the university’s engineering and physics departments. As the chaos erupted, students were urged to lock doors and hide as the campus warned of an active shooter situation.
President Donald Trump expressed his condolences, stating, “All we can do right now is pray for the victims.” He was briefed on the incident while attending the Army-Navy football game. Trump initially reported that a suspect was in custody but later corrected himself, confirming that the shooter remains at large.
Providence Deputy Chief of Police Tim O’Hara described the suspect as a male dressed in black who fled the scene on foot. “We’re utilizing every resource possible to find this suspect,” O’Hara stated during a press conference. Local police have joined forces with the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to investigate the shooting.
The university has reported that final exams were taking place at the time of the shooting, heightening the urgency of the response. Brown University Provost Francis Doyle reassured the community, stating, “We have relocated students to get support services at a secure location.”
Witnesses described a scene of chaos, with emergency personnel rushing to the area. One doctoral engineering student recounted huddling with classmates in their lab, anxiously awaiting updates. “I don’t know what’s going on right now,” he said, highlighting the fear gripping the campus community.
In a related incident, police engaged in a confrontation a couple of blocks from the university that resulted in gunfire, but the connection to the Brown University shooter remains unclear. Initial reports suggested a suspect might have been in custody, but this was later retracted by authorities.
As the investigation continues, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley emphasized the importance of public safety. “Brown, Providence, and the FBI are currently in close coordination as they seek to find the shooter,” he stated.
Students and faculty are advised to stay vigilant as law enforcement works to secure the area. The FBI Boston field office is providing extensive support, including evidence response and victim assistance.
This tragic event at one of America’s prestigious universities is a stark reminder of the violence that can erupt in educational environments. As the situation develops, our thoughts remain with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
Stay tuned for more updates on this breaking news story as authorities continue their investigation.
