Authorities have apprehended a “person of interest” in connection with the tragic shooting at Brown University that resulted in the deaths of two students and left nine others injured. This incident occurred as students were engaged in exams prior to their winter break. Providence Police Chief, Oscar Perez, revealed at a Sunday afternoon news conference that the identified suspect is in his 20s, although further details were withheld due to the ongoing investigation. Notably, Perez mentioned that authorities are not pursuing any additional suspects at this time.
FBI Director Kash Patel shared on social media that the individual was located in a hotel room in Coventry, Rhode Island, which is approximately 30 minutes from the university campus. A specialized FBI team utilized geolocation data to successfully track the suspect.
The shooting has contributed to a staggering count of nearly 400 mass shootings in the United States this year, as reported by the Gun Violence Archive, leaving a profound impact on the Brown community, which is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the nation. In response to the tragedy, the university has canceled all remaining exams and classes for the year, leading to a somber atmosphere on campus, accentuated by a light snowfall.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley indicated that, as of midday on Sunday, authorities had not yet managed to contact all relatives of the victims due to some family members being in transit. He encouraged community members to join in a planned gathering that evening to illuminate a Christmas tree and a menorah, marking the start of Hanukkah. “It is quite clear that if we can come together as a community and shine a little bit of light tonight, I think there’s nothing better that we could be doing,” remarked Smiley.
Regarding the injured students, seven are reported to be in stable condition, while one remains in critical but stable condition, and another has already been discharged. Shelter-in-place restrictions in areas surrounding the university were lifted on Sunday. Mayor Smiley added that residents should anticipate a noticeable police presence throughout the city as investigators continue their work.
The gunman reportedly fled the scene after opening fire on students in a classroom within the Barus & Holley building, where outer doors were unlocked during the exam period, prompting serious questions about campus security protocols.
This incident has not only shaken the Brown University community but has also reignited conversations about gun violence and safety within educational institutions. As authorities work diligently to gather more information, the hope remains that communities will unite and support one another through these challenging times.
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