Police have announced the release of a man previously detained in connection with the fatal shooting on Brown University’s campus in Providence, Rhode Island.
What happened
On Saturday, a gunman opened fire inside a classroom on the first floor of the Barus & Holley engineering building, a seven‑storey hub for engineering and physics studies. Two people were killed and nine others, believed to be students, were injured.
Brown University provost Frank Doyle confirmed that final exams were taking place in the building at the time of the attack. Police say the shooter fired more than 40 9mm rounds; a firearm has not been recovered, but two loaded 30‑round magazines were seized.
Video released by officials shows a suspect in dark, loose‑fitting clothing walking down a street away from campus and turning a corner.
Why it matters
The incident strikes at the heart of a university’s academic environment, disrupting final examinations and raising concerns about campus safety nationwide. The release of the detained individual, identified as 24‑year‑old Benjamin Erickson, a former U.S. Army servicemember, adds complexity to the investigation and to public discussions about the profiling of veterans.
With multiple victims injured and the weapon still missing, law‑enforcement agencies are under pressure to locate the firearm, reconstruct the shooter’s movements, and reassure the academic community.
What could happen next
Authorities may continue to search for the missing gun, review the seized magazines for forensic evidence, and interview witnesses to piece together the shooter’s identity and motive. Prosecutors could decide whether to charge the released suspect with any related offenses, while university officials are likely to review security protocols and consider additional protective measures for future examinations.
Analysts expect that any further developments will hinge on the recovery of additional evidence and the outcome of ongoing police interviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was detained and then released?
The detained individual was identified as 24‑year‑old Benjamin Erickson, who served several years in the U.S. Army.
How many people were killed and injured?
Two people were killed and nine others were injured in the attack.
What evidence did police recover at the scene?
Police recovered two loaded 30‑round magazines, but the gun used in the shooting has not been found.
What are your thoughts on the steps universities should take to improve campus safety?