At least two people have been killed and several more injured in an active shooter situation at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. This alarming incident has raised concerns about campus safety and the broader issue of gun violence in the United States.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley confirmed during a press conference held around 6:30 p.m. ET that two individuals had died and eight others had been taken to the hospital for treatment. The initial reports suggested that a suspect was in custody, but this information was later retracted, and authorities continue to search for the shooter or shooters involved in the attack.
During the evening press conference, officials provided limited details about the incident, stating that the shooter wore black and exited the building via Hope Street. No further information about the suspect’s identity or motive has been released at this time.
Brown University, located in Providence, issued a statement urging students and staff to shelter in place after an active shooter was reported near the Barus & Holley Engineering building at approximately 4:22 p.m. ET. The university advised everyone to lock doors, silence phones, and avoid the area until further notice.
“This remains an active crime scene, and law enforcement continues to search for the suspect. The situation is ongoing, and all members of the community should continue to shelter in place,” school officials said in a statement issued shortly after 6:00 p.m. ET.
Multiple people have been shot, though the conditions of the victims remain unknown. Officials have not shared specific details about the number of injured or their current status, citing the need to protect the privacy of those involved.
The university has convened an “emergency command” to coordinate its response to the crisis. Local law enforcement has urged the public to exercise caution and avoid the area around Hope Street until further notice.
The school’s alert system initially reported shots fired at 5:27 p.m. ET near Governor Street, but later clarified that reports of a secondary shooting incident at that location were unfounded. At this time, no further details about potential victims, the shooter’s identity, or the current status of the situation are available. Authorities have cautioned that the information remains preliminary as investigators work to determine what happened.
It is important to note that the campus is in the midst of finals week, with many students still on campus and preparing to head home for the holiday break. This adds to the urgency of the situation as the university works to ensure the safety of its community.
What People Are Saying
President Donald Trump made a post on Truth Social, stating, “I have been briefed on the shooting that took place at Brown University in Rhode Island. The FBI is on the scene.”
The Providence Police Department also posted on X, saying, “There is currently heavy Providence Police and Fire presence on Hope Street near Brown University. Please exercise caution and avoid this area until further notice.”
Brown University released a statement on its website, emphasizing its commitment to the safety of its community. “Our first priority is the safety of our community and coordinating closely with local law enforcement and medical personnel to ensure their safety. We are working immediately to determine who was in the building at the time of the shooting. We had multiple exams scheduled in that building from 2 pm to 5 pm. We can confirm that support services are on site.”
“We have been and continue to be very grateful to law enforcement and emergency medical personnel. We have relocated students to get support services at a secure location,” officials added. “Please continue to take all steps to remain safe. Follow the instructions of law enforcement personnel and avoid the area.”
What Happens Next
An active investigation remains open, and police have asked the news media gathering at the scene to move to a different staging area. As the situation unfolds, updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
