Police in Rhode Island have taken a suspect into custody following a deadly shooting that shook the Brown University campus during final examinations, leaving two people dead and at least nine others wounded.
Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez confirmed early Sunday that the suspect, believed to be in their 30s, is now detained. Authorities have not disclosed where the arrest took place or whether the suspect has any direct connection to Brown University.
The shooting occurred inside the university’s engineering building, where a gunman opened fire in a first-floor classroom during scheduled exams. The incident triggered a massive law enforcement response, with hundreds of officers sweeping the campus and surrounding neighborhoods while reviewing surveillance footage in a race to locate the shooter.
Brown University President Christina Paxson said the campus community is struggling to process the violence. “Everybody’s reeling, and we have a lot of recovery ahead of us,” she said at a news conference.
According to Paxson, 10 of those shot were students. An additional person was injured by fragments from the gunfire, though it remains unclear whether that individual is affiliated with the university.
Police released surveillance video showing a suspect dressed in black calmly leaving the engineering building after the shooting. The individual’s face was not visible, and investigators said it is still unclear whether the suspect is a student. Witnesses reported that the suspect may have been wearing a camouflage-style mask, according to Providence Police Deputy Chief Timothy O’Hara.
The manhunt effectively shut down the campus and nearby areas, including residential neighborhoods and downtown Providence. Streets that are typically busy on weekends fell silent as authorities urged residents to remain indoors. Many local businesses closed, expressing shock and sorrow over the incident.
Students were ordered to shelter in place for several hours. Some were escorted out of buildings by officers in tactical gear and taken to a campus fitness center, while others were transported by bus without personal belongings or warm clothing.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley said investigators are still trying to determine how the shooter accessed the classroom. While the building’s exterior doors were unlocked, classrooms used for final exams normally require badge access.
City officials warned residents to expect a heavy police presence as the investigation continues.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims, and no motive has been confirmed. The investigation remains ongoing.
Credit: AP
