UPDATE: A tragic shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, has left at least 2 people dead and 8 others critically injured, campus officials confirmed. The incident unfolded earlier today during final exams, prompting an active shooter alert that sent students scrambling for safety.
Authorities report that the shooting occurred around 2 p.m. ET at the Barus and Holley building, which houses engineering and physics classrooms. Students received alerts advising them to shelter in place, lock doors, and silence their phones. Providence Deputy Chief of Police Tim O’Hara stated, “We’re utilizing every resource possible to find this suspect,” urging the public to avoid the area.
President Donald Trump, who has been briefed on the situation, expressed his condolences, saying, “What a terrible thing it is… all we can do right now is pray for the victims.” He later clarified that initial reports of a suspect in custody were incorrect; the shooter remains at large.
As the investigation unfolds, local and federal law enforcement, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are on the scene assisting with the search. Witnesses described a chaotic scene with emergency responders and officers in tactical gear rushing to the area as the lockdown continued.
Students inside the building described hiding under desks for nearly two hours awaiting evacuation. One student recounted, “We decided to open the door and let the police come in… I don’t know what’s going on right now.”
The university is in close coordination with law enforcement to assess the situation and provide support services to the affected students. Provost Francis Doyle urged the campus community to remain vigilant as authorities work to secure the area.
Multiple reports of a secondary shooting near Governor Street were found to be unfounded, but officials emphasized the importance of continued safety measures.
As of 6:34 p.m. ET, the condition of the injured remains critical but stable. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley announced an upcoming press conference at 6:30 p.m. ET to provide further updates on the investigation and the status of the victims.
This devastating incident adds to the growing concerns surrounding campus safety as communities across the nation grapple with similar tragedies. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading to this horrific event and are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Stay tuned for live updates as this story develops.
