A tragic shooting incident at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, has resulted in the deaths of at least two students and left nine others injured, stirring deep sorrow and outrage within the Ivy League institution and beyond. The peaceful ambiance on campus was abruptly disturbed Saturday afternoon when a gunman opened fire in an engineering building during an economics exam, prompting an immediate lockdown.
Authorities have apprehended a person of interest, a 24-year-old former U.S. Army member, who was found staying at a hotel in Coventry, approximately 25 minutes from the university. While details are limited due to the ongoing investigation, police are being cautious about releasing further information, citing the sensitive nature of the case.
As the lockdown was lifted, many students shared their harrowing experiences. “At some moments, we thought we were going to fight. We made makeshift weapons down in that basement. We were prepared to go out and defend ourselves, and I’ve never experienced something like that,” recounted student Ben Peckham. This incident has sparked significant concern among parents, who are questioning how an armed individual could breach security on campus during class hours. Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez assured parents, “Brown has been an icon in this city. I think this is an unfortunate incident, but I tell the parents that if their kids are going to come to this city, be sure we’re going to do what we need to ensure that they are safe.”
For students, the tragic event has disrupted a sense of security that previously distanced them from the pervasive gun violence often reported in other parts of the country. “We hear stories like this all the time on the news, but it always seems so far away. It’s in Nevada, it’s in Virginia. It’s always in the periphery. It’s never in the immediate,” expressed student Wilberto Mercedes.
In light of the tragedy, university officials have canceled the majority of exams for the rest of the semester to allow students to return home early. The community came together the following evening for a candlelight vigil, braving the cold to honor the victims and seek answers in the wake of this heartbreaking event that has once again highlighted the urgent issue of gun violence in America.
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