Manhunt Continues After Brown University Shooting Claims Two Lives

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The Deadly Attack on Campus (Image Credits: Flickr)

Providence, Rhode Island – A gunman dressed in black unleashed terror at Brown University during final exams, killing two students and injuring nine others in the engineering building.

The Deadly Attack on Campus

The shooting erupted on Saturday afternoon in the Barus and Holley building, home to the university’s engineering and physics departments. Students were deep into their final assessments when gunfire shattered the quiet focus. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as people fled the area, seeking safety amid the sudden violence. Emergency responders arrived quickly, transporting the wounded to nearby hospitals, where some remained in critical condition. The incident marked a somber turn for the Ivy League institution, known for its academic rigor and vibrant community.

Authorities confirmed the shooter targeted the building during peak exam hours, maximizing the potential for harm. Initial reports indicated multiple rounds fired, leading to the high number of casualties. The university activated lockdown protocols immediately, confining students to secure locations until the threat subsided. Police secured the perimeter, combing the site for evidence while urging the public to avoid the area. This event has prompted widespread concern over campus security measures at major universities.

Person of Interest Detained and Released

Early Sunday, Providence police detained a 24-year-old man from Wisconsin as a person of interest in the case. Identified as Benjamin Erickson, he was held briefly while investigators reviewed surveillance footage and other leads. However, evidence soon shifted the probe in a different direction, leading to his release without charges later that day. Officials emphasized that Erickson was not considered the shooter, though details of his connection to the scene remained unclear. The decision drew mixed reactions from the community, with some expressing frustration over the ongoing uncertainty.

The release highlighted the complexities of the investigation, as authorities sifted through tips and digital evidence. Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez addressed the media, noting the need for patience as the search intensified. Surveillance images captured the suspect in dark clothing, aiding the effort to identify him. Tip lines remained active, encouraging anyone with information to come forward. This development underscored the fluid nature of the manhunt, keeping the campus on high alert.

Broader Impact and Response

Brown University President Christina Paxson confirmed the victims included two students, extending condolences to their families and the wider community. The shelter-in-place order, which affected the surrounding neighborhood, was lifted Sunday evening, allowing normal activities to resume cautiously. Classes and events faced potential disruptions as counseling services ramped up to support those affected. Local leaders, including Rhode Island officials, called for enhanced safety protocols in educational settings. The tragedy resonated beyond Providence, sparking national discussions on gun violence in academic environments.

Key figures from politics and sports paid tribute, with the New England Patriots observing a moment of silence during their game. President Trump issued a statement offering prayers for the victims and praising first responders. Community members gathered for vigils, sharing stories of loss and resilience. Law enforcement agencies collaborated across states, leveraging resources to track the perpetrator. These responses reflected a collective effort to heal and seek justice amid the grief.

• Two students killed in the engineering building shooting.
• Nine others wounded, with several in stable but critical condition.
• Suspect described as dressed in black, seen on surveillance footage.
• Person of interest, Benjamin Erickson, released after brief detention.
• Manhunt ongoing; public urged to contact Providence tip line at 401-272-3121.

As the search for the shooter persists, the Brown University community grapples with profound loss and a renewed commitment to safety. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in higher education spaces. What steps can institutions take to prevent such tragedies? Share your thoughts in the comments below.