A tragic shooting at Brown University on Saturday resulted in two student deaths and nine injuries inside the Barus & Holley engineering building during final exams. The assailant fired over 40 rounds from a 9mm handgun, prompting the suspension of all academic activities. The university is offering support services to affected students.
In response, Providence police launched a thorough investigation, with a public tip leading them to a hotel in Coventry, Rhode Island, about 20 miles away. At approximately 3:45 a.m. on Sunday, authorities detained a 24-year-old man from Wisconsin, who had two firearms on him. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley confirmed the arrest and ended a shelter-in-place order that had been issued after the shooting.
However, further investigation found insufficient evidence to hold the man, leading Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez to announce his release on Sunday evening. New evidence shifted the focus of the investigation, and authorities are intensifying efforts to locate the actual shooter.
The shooting has profoundly affected the Brown University community. University President Christina Paxson expressed deep sorrow, remarking, “Our hearts go out to them,” and the institution has canceled all remaining classes and exams for the semester while providing counseling services to students and staff.
The broader Providence community has shown solidarity, with local leaders and residents holding vigils and support events. Mayor Smiley stressed the importance of community healing and encouraged participation in upcoming holiday events. The investigation continues as authorities work to bring the responsible individual to justice.
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