Brown University Shooting: Community in Shock After Campus Violence

A shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, on Saturday afternoon left two people dead and nine others injured, prompting a frantic search for the suspect. According to NPR, the incident occurred around 4 p.m. outside the Barus and Holley building, where final exams were taking place.

Brown University President Christina Paxson confirmed that at least 10 of the 11 victims were students. Initial reports suggested a suspect was in custody, but that was later corrected, leaving the search ongoing.

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley stated that the shooter was a male dressed in black and that the outer doors of the building were unlocked during the exams, allowing access. The suspect fled on foot, and police released surveillance footage showing the individual leaving the scene.

Eight of the injured were in critical but stable condition, while one had a non-life-threatening injury, according to The Guardian. Local law enforcement, supported by federal agencies, has been searching the campus and nearby neighborhoods.

In light of the tragedy, discussions on campus safety and mental health support for students have intensified, with Brown officials urging the community to remain vigilant. Governor Dan McKee expressed his shock, stating, 'This is the day one hopes never happens, and it has.' The university has canceled final exams as the community grapples with the aftermath of this violence.