Additional Coverage:
Suspect Apprehended in Tragic Brown University Shooting
Providence, RI – Authorities in Rhode Island have confirmed the arrest of a person of interest in connection with the horrific shooting at Brown University on Saturday that left two dead and nearly a dozen injured.
The individual, described as a man in his 20s and not enrolled at Brown University, was apprehended approximately 20 miles southwest of the campus, in Coventry, after a widespread search. The motive behind this deadly incident remains unclear as the investigation continues.
The campus and surrounding community were plunged into chaos Saturday afternoon when the suspected shooter reportedly opened fire as students were preparing for final exams. Police have confirmed two fatalities and eight individuals critically wounded, though their conditions are now reported as stable. The identities of the victims have not yet been released, and it remains unconfirmed whether they were students.
The incident unfolded around 4:05 p.m. when the unnamed assailant entered the Barus & Holley engineering building, a facility requiring card swipe access after hours. Initial reports suggest the shooter may have gained entry either through a swipe card or by being admitted by others within the building, which was reportedly busy due to final exams. The suspect was last seen fleeing on foot down Hope Street shortly after the initial emergency call was made.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley urged residents to secure their homes during the search, expressing the deep sorrow felt by the community. “The Brown community’s heart is breaking, and Providence’s heart is breaking along with it,” Mayor Smiley stated.
Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee assured the public that every possible effort was being made to apprehend the perpetrator, adding that his office had been in communication with the White House. The FBI has also been assisting in the ongoing investigation.
Former President Donald Trump, who was briefed on the matter, offered his condolences via Truth Social, stating, “God bless the victims and the families of the victims.”
Brown University issued a statement confirming the tragic loss of life: “We are very sorry to share that we have confirmed reports of two deceased victims from the active shooting situation at the Barus & Holley engineering building. There are eight additional victims in critical, but stable condition at the hospital.
There remains a shelter in place order. The shooter or shooters still are not in custody at this time.
Law enforcement is active in the area.” This update was released prior to the suspect’s apprehension.