PROVIDENCE, R.I. — On an otherwise serene Saturday afternoon, the tranquil environment of Brown University was shattered when a gunman opened fire during final exams in the engineering building, resulting in the tragic deaths of two individuals and injuring nine others.
The police response was swift, deploying hundreds of officers to the campus and surrounding neighborhoods, as investigators meticulously reviewed surveillance footage in search of the suspect, described as a man in his 30s wearing black and possibly a camouflage mask.
University President Christina Paxson confirmed that among the injured, at least ten were students. This incident left the university community in shock, with classes interrupted and students facing the horror of an active shooter situation.
The gunfire prompted a lockdown of the campus, transforming busy streets into eerie silence. Many students found themselves trapped as they sheltered in place for hours, with tactical officers assisting those fleeing danger into safe locations.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley urged residents near the university to remain indoors, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Authorities believe the shooter used a handgun and are currently working with tight restrictions in Rhode Island's strict gun control environment.
The shooting occurred during engineering design exams in the Barus & Holley building, which houses numerous classrooms and labs. Eyewitness reports described scenes of chaos, with students attempting to hide as alarms sounded.
As campus authorities and law enforcement continue to manage the aftermath of this tragic event, the community is grappling with feelings of vulnerability amid calls for increased safety on campus.
This incident sadly underscores the growing concerns over gun violence in educational institutions and the urgent need for discussions around safety, mental health, and community support.
