Brown University Shooting Leaves Two Dead, Suspect Still at Large
A deadly shooting at Brown University has left two people dead and at least eight others injured, prompting a large-scale police search across Providence. The incident occurred on Sunday inside the university’s engineering complex while academic examinations were underway.
According to local authorities, gunfire erupted near the Barus and Holley engineering buildings, triggering panic across the campus. Emergency alerts were quickly issued, instructing students and staff to remain indoors as officers secured the area.
Police initially indicated that a suspect had been detained, but Brown University later clarified that no arrest had been made. Law enforcement agencies continued an intensive search for a male suspect reportedly wearing dark clothing. Surveillance footage from nearby streets and buildings is being reviewed to identify the shooter.
City officials temporarily shut down surrounding roads as police expanded their perimeter. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley described the incident as a tragic blow to the community, especially during the holiday season, and offered condolences to the victims’ families.
Authorities have not released the identities of those killed or injured, and it remains unclear whether the victims were students. State police, federal agents, and neighboring law enforcement departments have joined the investigation.
The search effort faced challenges due to large crowds in downtown Providence, where holiday shopping and public events were taking place. Several venues increased security measures, and residents were advised to avoid the area until further notice.
Brown University, located on College Hill, spans a wide section of the city and includes academic buildings, residence halls, and research facilities. Students described chaotic scenes as emergency messages spread rapidly. Some reported hiding in classrooms for hours before receiving clearance from police.
The White House confirmed that President Donald Trump was briefed on the shooting and expressed sympathy for those affected, calling the incident deeply disturbing.
The shooting has once again intensified national concerns over gun violence. Data from national monitoring groups show hundreds of mass shooting incidents reported across the United States this year, including several on school campuses, highlighting the continuing public safety challenge.
