A chilling scene unfolded Saturday afternoon at Brown University, leaving a community reeling in the wake of a mass shooting. Two students lost their lives, and nine others sustained injuries within the walls of the Barus and Holley engineering building, shattering the tranquility of the Ivy League campus.
The shooting erupted around 4 p.m. inside a classroom, sending waves of panic through the university. Authorities are currently engaged in a manhunt for a suspect – a man reportedly dressed in black, last seen fleeing the building on foot. The absence of a weapon at the scene adds a layer of complexity to the investigation.
A shelter-in-place order was immediately issued for the broader Brown University area, transforming the campus into a zone of heightened alert. Over 400 officers from local law enforcement agencies, including the Rhode Island State Police, and federal agencies like the FBI and ATF, have converged on the scene, meticulously combing for clues.
The investigation is complicated by the fact that final exams were underway in the Barus and Holley building between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., meaning numerous individuals were present. Authorities are working to identify everyone who was inside during the horrific event, noting that exterior doors were unlocked to accommodate the exam schedule.
The shooting has deeply shaken residents of Providence, a city typically known for its safety. One local resident, speaking to reporters, described the situation as “scary,” expressing disbelief that such an event could occur in the heart of Brown’s campus – a place considered a safe haven.
The FBI has pledged full support to the investigation, offering resources ranging from evidence response teams to victim assistance. The agency’s commitment underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for answers.
News of the tragedy reached beyond Rhode Island, prompting reactions from national figures. Statements of sorrow and calls for prayer were offered, acknowledging the profound loss and the pain inflicted upon the Brown University community.
Brown University, a private institution home to over 11,000 students, now faces the daunting task of healing and understanding how such violence could penetrate its campus. The Barus and Holley building, typically a hub of learning and innovation, is now a somber reminder of the day’s devastating events.
The city of Providence, located just south of Boston, is grappling with the shock of this unprecedented incident. As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, seeking solace and answers in the face of unimaginable loss.
