Several people were reported injured after a shooting near Brown University on Saturday, prompting the Ivy League institution to issue an active shooter alert during the second day of final exams and urge students and staff to shelter in place.
Police confirmed the incident but did not immediately release how many people were shot, the severity of their injuries or the exact circumstances of the violence. The situation remained volatile for most of the afternoon as law enforcement expanded their response.
What do we know so far about the Brown University mass shooting?
The shooting was reported near Brown University’s Barus & Holley building, a prominent seven-story facility that houses the School of Engineering and the Department of Physics. According to the university, the complex contains more than 100 laboratories, numerous classrooms and academic offices.
At the time of the incident, engineering design trials were underway inside the building, raising anxiety across campus as emergency alerts went out.
Is the suspect in the Brown University shooting in custody?
University officials initially informed students and staff that the suspect had been taken into custody. However, this message was later corrected and Brown’s emergency notification system clarified that police were still searching for the suspect or suspects.
Authorities have not released any descriptions or said whether they believe the attacker acted alone.
How did officials and community leaders respond?
Providence Councilman John Goncalves, whose ward includes the Brown University campus, said officials were focused on ensuring public safety as information continued to emerge.
“We’re still getting information about what’s going on, but we’re just telling people to lock their doors and be vigilant,” he said. “As a Brown alum, someone who loves the Brown community and represents the area, I am heartbroken. My heart goes out to all the family members and people who were affected.”
What role do federal agencies play?
Federal law enforcement agencies joined the response. The FBI’s Boston office said it was assisting local authorities.
According to a statement posted on social media, the office offers “including evidence, investigative and tactical support as well as victim assistance.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also confirmed that agents from its Boston Field Division are responding to the incident.
“Law enforcement agencies are asking the public to stay out of the area and follow the directions of local and state authorities,” the agency said.
Has Donald Trump spoken, White House?
President Donald Trump said late Saturday that he had been briefed on the shooting. “God bless the victims and the families of the victims!” stated on his social network.
What you should know about Brown University
The shooting Saturday took place at Brown University, a private liberal arts university in the historic College Hill neighborhood of Providence, Rhode Island.
The Ivy League university serves 11,005 students, including 7,272 undergraduates, according to its website.
The university was founded in 1764 and is the seventh oldest college in the country. It boasts a 5.4% undergraduate acceptance rate. In addition to the undergraduate college, the university houses a medical school, an engineering school, and a school of public health. It also has a close relationship with the nearby Rhode Island School of Design, a leading art school.
