Urgent: Brown University Shooting Claims 2 Lives, 8 Injured

UPDATE: At least 2 people have been killed and 8 others critically injured in a devastating shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, according to campus officials. The incident, which has unfolded just hours ago, has sent shockwaves through the community as students and staff were warned of an active shooter on campus and instructed to shelter in place.

Authorities report that the shooting occurred at the Barus and Holley building, home to classrooms and laboratories for the university’s engineering and physics departments. The campus alert, sent at approximately 2:00 PM ET, advised individuals to lock doors and silence phones as law enforcement began their urgent response.

President Donald Trump addressed the media earlier today, expressing his condolences to the victims and their families. “What a terrible thing it is… all we can do right now is pray for the victims,” he stated, while confirming he has been briefed on the situation.

Law enforcement officials, including the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, are on the scene assisting local authorities. Providence Deputy Chief of Police Tim O’Hara confirmed that the suspected shooter is described as a male dressed in black and is still at large. “We’re utilizing every resource possible to find this suspect,” O’Hara said during a news conference. He urged the public to avoid the area as the search continues.

Around 6:34 PM ET, a university alert confirmed the critical condition of the injured, stating that they have been transported to local hospitals. Specific details about the victims have not yet been released.

As the situation develops, students have shared their harrowing experiences. One doctoral engineering student, Chiangheng Chien, recounted how he and his classmates locked themselves in their lab for nearly two hours, fearing for their lives. “We decided to open the door and let the police come in and search our body and search our lab,” he said, reflecting on the chaos and uncertainty during the lockdown.

The shooting coincided with final exams scheduled between 2 PM and 5 PM, heightening the urgency of the situation as many students were present on campus at the time. Following the initial reports, a secondary shooting near Governor Street was deemed unfounded, but authorities re-emphasized the importance of staying sheltered.

The university community remains in shock as officials continue to gather information. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley confirmed that local law enforcement is closely coordinating with federal agencies to apprehend the suspect. At a recent press conference, he stated, “Brown, Providence, and the FBI are currently in close coordination as they seek to find the shooter or shooters.”

Witnesses describe a scene of panic as emergency vehicles raced to the location, with reports of CPR being administered on victims. “It’s very scary because I don’t want to get harmed,” resident Jib Daya expressed, capturing the fear that has gripped the community.

In light of these tragic events, Brown University has reiterated its commitment to safety, urging students and staff to remain vigilant and follow instructions from law enforcement. As investigations continue, the university has pledged to provide support services for affected individuals.

This incident marks a tragic day for Brown University and the wider community in Providence. As details emerge, the search for the suspect remains a top priority for law enforcement. Please stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.