Police Detain Person of Interest in Brown University Shooting

Police in Providence, Rhode Island, have taken a person of interest into custody following a shooting at Brown University that left two people dead and nine others injured. The incident occurred in the Barus & Holley building during final exams on the afternoon of March 16, 2024. Authorities are scheduled to hold a news conference at 07:00 local time to provide further details.

The shooting sparked a massive police response, with hundreds of officers searching the university campus and surrounding neighborhoods for the gunman. The campus, typically vibrant during the weekend, fell silent as students sheltered in place for hours. Surveillance footage shows the suspect, dressed in black, calmly leaving the scene, although his identity remains unconfirmed, and it is unclear if he is affiliated with the university.

According to Providence Police Deputy Chief Timothy O’Hara, the shooter is believed to be in his 30s and may have worn a camouflage mask. University President Christina Paxson confirmed that ten of the injured were students, while one additional victim suffered injuries from debris caused by the gunfire.

The shooting occurred during a time when engineering design exams were taking place in the seven-story building housing the School of Engineering and the physics department. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as gunshots rang out. Emma Ferraro, a chemical engineering student, recalled hearing loud pops and quickly fleeing to safety.

As the investigation unfolded, Mayor Brett Smiley advised residents near the campus to stay indoors until the situation was resolved. He expressed deep concern for the Brown community, stating, “The Brown community’s heart is breaking and Providence’s heart is breaking along with it.”

Authorities believe a handgun was used in the shooting, although further details regarding how the perpetrator accessed the classroom remain unclear. The building’s outer doors were reportedly unlocked, but access to exam rooms required badge clearance.

Nine victims were transported to Rhode Island Hospital, where one was reported in critical condition. Six others required intensive care, while two were stable. Hospital spokeswoman Kelly Brennan provided updates on the patients’ conditions.

Among those impacted by the shooting was Eva Erickson, a doctoral candidate and recent contestant on the reality show “Survivor.” She had left her lab just 15 minutes before the shots were fired and later sheltered in the campus gym. Another student, Alex Bruce, was in his dormitory across the street when he heard sirens and expressed his shock.

Students reacted swiftly to the unfolding crisis, with some hiding under desks in nearby laboratories after receiving alerts about the shooting. Mari Camara, a junior from New York City, sought refuge in a nearby taqueria and spent over three hours there, communicating with friends as the situation developed.

Brown University, established in 1764, is one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in the United States, with approximately 7,300 undergraduates and over 3,000 graduate students. Tuition and fees can reach nearly $100,000 a year.

As the community grapples with this tragedy, law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the identity of the shooter. Governor Dan McKee has promised that all available resources will be directed toward apprehending the suspect, ensuring safety for the affected community.