On Saturday afternoon, a shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to nine others. The incident occurred near the Barus and Holley engineering building, prompting the university to issue a text alert to students advising them to lock doors, silence their phones, and remain hidden.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley held a press conference in the evening to confirm the casualties, noting that while two people had died, eight others were hospitalized in critical but stable condition. Initially, there were conflicting reports regarding the status of a suspect; however, it was clarified that no suspects were in custody as of Saturday night. The university reiterated this information, stating that a shelter-in-place order was still in effect and that law enforcement was actively searching for the shooter.
Authorities described the suspect as a "male dressed in black," who reportedly exited the building and whose current whereabouts remain unknown. The police have urged the public to avoid the area while the investigation continues.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is also on the scene, providing assistance to local law enforcement. FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the agency's commitment to utilizing all available resources in the response to this incident.
As the situation develops, local officials and law enforcement will continue to provide updates. The community is urged to remain vigilant and to report any information that could aid in the search for the individual responsible for the shooting.