BREAKING: A tragic shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, has left two people dead and eight others injured. The shooter remains at large as of Saturday evening, prompting a massive police response and a shelter-in-place order for the campus community.
Authorities confirmed the shooting occurred at the Barus & Holley Engineering building shortly after 4:22 p.m. ET. The university sent out an emergency alert, urging students to “lock doors, silence phones and stay hidden until further notice.” As the situation unfolded, a second alert at 5:11 p.m. reinforced the need for students to shelter in place.
Local officials, including Governor Dan McKee and Mayor Brett Smiley, expressed their shock at the incident. “The unthinkable has happened,” McKee stated. Authorities reported that the victims are currently in critical but stable condition at a local hospital.
As of 7 p.m. ET, police have confirmed that no suspects are in custody. Tim O’Hara, deputy chief of Providence police, revealed that the suspect is described as a male dressed in black. Police have conducted extensive searches of the engineering building, where multiple exams were being held for the end of the fall semester, but the gunman remains unlocated.
The FBI has joined local law enforcement efforts, offering resources to assist in the ongoing investigation. The agency confirmed it is “aiding our law enforcement partners in Rhode Island with any and all available resources.”
In a statement released around 7 p.m. ET, Brown University officials confirmed the tragic loss of two lives, stating, “We are very sorry to share that we have confirmed reports of two deceased victims from the active shooting situation. There are eight additional victims in critical, but stable condition at the hospital.” The statement emphasized the importance of safety, urging community members to avoid the area and follow law enforcement instructions.
The university community is reeling from this devastating event. “We know there is a lot of fear and concern and uncertainty in the community right now,” the update noted. Anyone who was in the Barus & Holley building at the time of the incident is encouraged to contact police.
As the situation develops, authorities continue their search for the suspect and work to provide support to the victims and their families. This incident highlights the urgent need for community safety and vigilance. More updates will be provided as they become available.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story. Share this information widely to keep others informed.
