Authorities have confirmed the death of Claudio Neves Valente, the suspect in the shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island last weekend. Valente, 48, was found deceased Thursday in a storage facility in Salem, New Hampshire, following a five-day search.
Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred Saturday in Brown University’s engineering and physics building during exams. Two students, Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, were killed, and nine others were injured. The names of those injured have not been released.
The Suspect’s Background
Claudio Neves Valente was a Portuguese citizen and a legal resident of the United States. He arrived in the country in August 2000 on a Brown University student visa (F-1) and obtained permanent residency in April 2017. Valente had previously been enrolled in Brown’s doctoral program but later withdrew.
Investigators believe Valente may have been planning the attack, requesting the public to review any phone or security camera footage from the week prior to the shooting. Several videos showing a person matching the suspect’s description – often masked or with their head turned – have been released.
Challenges in the Investigation
Despite the presence of 1,200 cameras on the Brown University campus, the shooting took place in an older section of the engineering building with limited camera coverage. Authorities believe the suspect entered and exited through a door leading to a residential street, potentially avoiding campus security cameras.
A person of interest was briefly detained during the investigation but released due to a lack of incriminating evidence.
Looking Ahead
The city of Providence is currently focused on reassuring the community following the shooting. Mayor Brett Smiley acknowledged the situation as “terrifying” and stated that families may question whether to remain in the city during the upcoming holidays. It is possible that increased security measures could be implemented on and around the Brown University campus. Further investigation into Valente’s motives could also occur, though authorities have not indicated any ongoing efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is known about the suspect?
Claudio Neves Valente was a 48-year-old Portuguese citizen and legal resident of the United States who had previously studied at Brown University.
How many people were injured in the shooting?
Nine people were injured in the shooting, but their names have not been released.
Was the suspect apprehended by authorities?
No, authorities confirmed that Claudio Neves Valente was found deceased on Thursday.
How will this event impact the sense of safety and security within the Brown University community and the city of Providence?
