A shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, on Saturday, December 13, claimed two lives and injured nine others. The incident occurred near the Barus & Holley building, a computer lab and engineering facility, around 4 p.m. local time during scheduled exams. Victims were hospitalized, and authorities confirmed the deaths during a 6:45 p.m. news conference.
Official Response and Timeline
- Initial Alert (shortly after 4 p.m.): University issued an active shooter warning, urging people to lock doors, silence phones, and hide.
- False Report (early evening): A brief announcement claimed a suspect in custody, quickly corrected—no one was detained.
- 5:15 p.m. Update: Shelter-in-place order continued; police searched for suspect(s), avoiding the Barus & Holley area.
- 5:27 p.m.: Report of shots near Governor Street, later deemed unfounded.
- 5:52 p.m.: Situation ongoing.
- 6:05 p.m.: Confirmed multiple shooting victims transported to hospitals; priority on community safety and coordination with law enforcement.
Providence Police described the suspect as a male dressed in black who exited via the Hope Street side. Commander Timothy O’Hara noted they’re using all resources to apprehend him. No details on entry method.
Leadership Statements
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley confirmed no suspect in custody as of 6:45 p.m. Rhode Island Gov. Daniel McKee called it “the unthinkable,” with state police and emergency management assisting. He posted on X: “Praying for our community.”
Eyewitness Accounts and Scene
Brown student Katie Sun heard gunshots at 4:10 p.m. while studying nearby and fled in terror. Footage showed officers aiding people on the ground near the Sciences Library. Support services were available on campus.
This appears to be a developing story with limited suspect details so far. For real-time updates, check official sources like Providence Police, Brown University alerts, or Rhode Island state channels. Stay safe if you’re in the area.
