BREAKING: A deadly shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, has left at least 2 people dead and 8 others critically injured, as confirmed by campus officials. The incident occurred earlier today, prompting immediate alerts for students to shelter in place as authorities responded to an active shooter situation.
Campus officials reported that the shooting unfolded at the Barus and Holley building, which is primarily used for engineering and physics classes, during final exams scheduled from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Witnesses described chaotic scenes as emergency responders rushed to the location where victims were treated on-site and transported to local hospitals.
President Donald Trump addressed the situation, expressing condolences and stating, “What a terrible thing it is… all we can do right now is pray for the victims.” Initial reports indicated that a suspect was in custody; however, this was later corrected, and authorities confirmed the shooter remains at large.
Police officials, including Deputy Chief Tim O’Hara, identified the suspect as a male dressed in black, who fled on foot after the shooting. “We’re utilizing every resource possible to find this suspect. Please do not come to the area,” O’Hara urged during a press conference.
As law enforcement continues their search, multiple federal agencies, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are assisting local authorities in the ongoing investigation. Mayor Brett Smiley stated that Brown University, Providence, and federal agencies are in “close coordination” to address the situation.
Students inside the building reported locking down for several hours, following directives to hide and remain silent until police could secure the area. One student, doctoral candidate Chiangheng Chien, recounted how they barricaded themselves in their lab, waiting anxiously for clear instructions amidst the unfolding chaos.
Authorities confirmed that multiple law enforcement officers engaged in a separate confrontation a few blocks away, leading to confusion about a potential suspect in custody. However, this individual’s relation to the shooting remains unclear.
In a campus alert issued at 6:34 p.m. ET, Brown University confirmed that two individuals have died and eight others are hospitalized in critical but stable condition. Details regarding the victims have not yet been released.
As the situation continues to develop, Brown University has advised students and staff to remain sheltered in place until further notice. The university community is being provided with support services in secure locations.
Witnesses reported seeing emergency vehicles racing to the scene, while some described seeing CPR being performed on victims. The sight of armed officers in tactical gear heightened the tension in the area, as local and national media captured the urgency of the response.
Currently, police and emergency responders are conducting thorough searches of the campus, and further updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds. Local authorities have emphasized the importance of following safety protocols and staying informed through official channels.
As news of this tragic incident spreads, the Brown University community and the nation hold their breath, waiting for more information on the victims and the ongoing manhunt for the shooter.
