A person of interest has been detained in connection with the shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, that left two students dead and injured nine others, officials said.
What happened
The gunman opened fire in a classroom at the Holley engineering building at around 16:00 local time (21:00 GMT) on Saturday. All of the victims—those killed and those wounded—have been identified as students, according to Brown University President Christina Paxson.
Police released CCTV footage showing a male suspect in all‑black clothing walking away from the scene. A sweep of the building did not recover a firearm.
Law‑enforcement response
On Sunday, police confirmed that a person of interest had been detained. Police chief Oscar Perez said officers were no longer searching for additional suspects and were working with prosecutors to gather evidence.
Earlier, authorities ordered a shelter‑in‑place for the Brown campus and surrounding area; the order was lifted after the detention was confirmed. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley said seven people remain in stable condition, one is critical but stable, and another has been discharged.
What may happen next
Law‑enforcement agencies could continue to interview witnesses and examine additional surveillance footage as they build the case against the detained individual. Prosecutors may decide to press charges based on the evidence gathered, which could lead to a trial that draws national attention.
Brown University is likely to review its campus safety protocols and may implement additional security measures. The city’s “long recovery ahead,” as described by President Paxson, could involve counseling services for students and faculty, as well as community‑wide discussions about preventive strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people were killed in the Brown University shooting?
Two people were killed.
When did the shooting occur?
The gunfire began at around 16:00 local time (21:00 GMT) on Saturday.
Has anyone else been arrested besides the detained person of interest?
Police chief Oscar Perez confirmed that officers are not looking for anyone else.
How do you think this incident will shape campus safety policies moving forward?