Brown University Shooting: Person of Interest Detained, 2 Dead
UPDATE: A person of interest is in custody following a devastating shooting at Brown University during final exams that left two students dead and nine others injured. The incident unfolded on Saturday, July 15, 2023, igniting chaos on the Ivy League campus and prompting a massive police response.
Authorities detained the suspect at a Hampton Inn hotel in Coventry, Rhode Island, approximately 20 miles from the university. The individual, described as being in their 30s, is currently under investigation but police have not confirmed any ties to Brown. Col. Oscar Perez, Providence’s police chief, stated at a news conference that no further suspects are being sought.
The shooting began around noon when the gunman opened fire inside a classroom at the Barus & Holley building, targeting students during a critical academic period. Reports indicate that over 40 rounds were fired from a 9 mm handgun. As of Sunday morning, authorities had not recovered the firearm but found two loaded 30-round magazines.
The lockdown imposed immediately after the shooting lasted for hours, disrupting the entire campus. Brown University President Christina Paxson expressed her sorrow, stating, “Our community’s strong and we’ll get through it, but it’s devastating.” As of now, one student has been released from the hospital, while seven remain in critical but stable condition and one is critically injured.
In the wake of the tragedy, Brown University has canceled all remaining classes, exams, and projects for the semester. Students have been advised they are free to leave campus. Local businesses have also closed their doors, and a scheduled 5K run has been postponed.
Mayor Brett Smiley addressed the emotional toll on the community, stating, “It’s not something that we should have to train for, but we have.” The presence of law enforcement will be significantly heightened in the area as residents grapple with the aftermath of this shocking event.
Surveillance footage has emerged showing the suspect fleeing the scene, dressed in black. Students shared their harrowing experiences; Eva Erickson, a doctoral candidate and “Survivor” runner-up, revealed she had just left the lab minutes before the attack. Fellow student Alex Bruce described the panic he felt as armed officers surrounded his dorm while others hid under desks in nearby labs.
Reports confirm that students were alerted through emergency notifications, leading many to seek immediate shelter. Mari Camara, a junior from New York City, recounted hiding in a taqueria for over three hours, feeling the shock that coursed through her peers.
The investigation is ongoing, with officials working to determine how the shooter accessed the classroom where the attack occurred. The building is known for its extensive research facilities, raising questions about campus security during such critical times.
This is a developing story. Stay connected for real-time updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts and follow Boston 25 News on social media.
