A gunman dressed in black opened fire at Brown University on Saturday, killing at least two people and wounding eight others during final exams. Authorities said the suspect fled the scene and remains at large, prompting a massive police search across the Ivy League campus and surrounding neighborhoods.
The attack occurred inside the Barus & Holley building, home to the School of Engineering and physics department, where exams were underway. Deputy Chief of Police Timothy O’Hara said the suspect, a male in dark clothing, was last seen leaving the building. Investigators believe he used a handgun.
Police officers in tactical gear swept through academic buildings, backyards and porches for hours, while Providence Mayor Brett Smiley ordered a shelter-in-place for residents near the campus. “We have all available resources to find the suspect,” Smiley said. Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee called the incident “unthinkable.”
Eight victims were taken to Rhode Island Hospital. Six were reported in critical but stable condition, one remained critical, and another was stable, according to hospital spokesperson Kelly Brennan.
Students described scenes of panic. Chemical engineering student Emma Ferraro said she heard loud pops in the lobby before realizing they were gunshots and ran for safety. Others hid under desks or sought shelter in nearby buildings and restaurants.
University officials initially announced a suspect was in custody but later corrected the statement, saying the person detained was not involved. Nearly five hours after the shooting, police escorted students from campus buildings to a fitness center.
The incident has reignited debate over gun violence in Rhode Island, which already has some of the strictest firearm laws in the United States. A ban on the sale and manufacturing of certain assault weapons will take effect next July.
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