A shooting at Brown University in Providence shocked students, families, and officials late Saturday night. Two students were killed during the attack, while eight others suffered critical gunshot wounds. In addition, a ninth person was injured by bullet fragments, city officials confirmed.
Police launched a large-scale manhunt as the suspect escaped the scene. Meanwhile, the Ivy League campus was placed under lockdown for several hours. Emergency vehicles blocked surrounding streets as officers searched nearby neighborhoods.
Suspect Remains Unidentified as Search Continues
According to city officials, the shooter remained at large hours after the incident. The mayor confirmed that investigators had not identified the suspect by late evening. Police described the suspect as a male dressed in black clothing.
Authorities also said the individual may have been wearing a mask. Investigators recovered shell casings from the scene of the shooting. However, officials declined to release further forensic details at this stage.
Video footage of the suspect was expected to be released to the public. Police urged residents to remain alert and report suspicious activity immediately.
Shooting Occurred During Exams
The shooting took place inside Brown’s Barus & Holley engineering building. At the time, students were present for scheduled examinations. As a result, the attack triggered panic across the campus.
University officials quickly instructed students to shelter in place. Many students hid inside classrooms, laboratories, and dormitories. Some remained under desks for nearly two hours during the lockdown.
One student later described waiting silently after receiving an emergency alert. Fear spread rapidly as reports of an active shooter circulated.
Officials Express Grief and Condemn Violence
City leaders described the incident as heartbreaking and deeply disturbing. The mayor noted the timing made the tragedy even more painful. The attack occurred just days before the Christmas holidays.
University leadership confirmed that most victims were students. The university president called the incident a day no campus hopes to face. Counseling and support services were arranged for affected students.
State leadership also responded swiftly to the violence. The governor vowed that authorities would bring the suspect to justice.
Citywide Security Intensified
The search faced challenges due to crowded streets downtown. Holiday shoppers and concertgoers filled the area at the time. Despite this, local and federal agencies joined the operation.
Police from surrounding towns assisted Providence officers throughout the night. Security was increased at venues across the city as a precaution. Officials emphasized public safety remained the top priority.
National Reaction and Broader Context
The incident drew national attention due to its severity. The US president was briefed and described the situation as terrible. He urged prayers for the victims and their families.
Mass shootings remain more frequent in the United States than many countries. Such attacks often occur at schools, workplaces, and public spaces. Gun violence continues to raise urgent safety concerns nationwide.
Community Awaits Answers
As the investigation continues, fear and grief grip the Brown University community. Students and families await answers as police intensify their search. Authorities stressed they will not stop until the suspect is found.
