A person of interest has been taken into custody in connection with the tragic shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, that left at least two people dead and nine others injured. Law enforcement officials confirmed the detention early Sunday morning after a tense and fast-moving investigation that began late Saturday afternoon. snowsurfgrid.com
The shooting occurred on December 13, 2025, during the university’s final exam period inside the engineering building on the Ivy League campus. Students were attending review sessions when gunfire broke out, prompting panic and an urgent shelter-in-place order. Police said the person of interest was spotted and detained at a hotel roughly 17 miles from the campus.snowsurfgrid.com Officials have not yet confirmed the individual’s identity or any affiliation with the university. Investigators are continuing interviews, gathering evidence, and coordinating with prosecutors as part of their next steps.
University and city officials have described the scene as “heartbreaking” and emphasized the trauma inflicted on the community. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley spoke openly about the grief felt by families, students, and residents. The shelter-in-place order for the campus and surrounding neighbourhood was later lifted.
What Happened?
According to police, the gunfire erupted in a classroom during final exams on Saturday afternoon. The shooter fled the scene before officers could apprehend them immediately. A massive manhunt followed, with law enforcement units canvassing campus buildings and neighborhoods. snowsurfgrid.com
Surveillance footage released by authorities showed a person wearing dark clothing walking away from the scene, but identification was difficult due to limited visibility and quality.snowsurfgrid.com Officials have since used that footage to help locate and detain the person of interest.
The Barus & Holley building, which houses Brown’s engineering and physics departments, was the location of the attack. It was filled with students working on final exams at the time. This sudden act of violence left classmates scrambling to safety and first responders rushing to aid victims. snowsurfgrid.com
Community Impact
The Brown community remains in shock following the shooting. Students reported hearing loud pops and then chaos as people tried to escape. Many were told to stay in place while police secured the area.
Brown University President Christina H. Paxson released statements expressing deep sorrow and a need for healing. Officials are providing support services for affected students and staff and coordinating with hospitals treating the wounded. snowsurfgrid.com
Hospitals in Providence treated nine people injured in the attack. Some were listed as stable, while others were in critical condition. Local leaders have expressed profound sympathy for the victims and their families and urged unity in the face of tragedy.
Law Enforcement Response
Providence police led the investigation with support from federal agencies, including the FBI and ATF. More than 400 officers responded to the initial reports, searching multiple buildings and working through the night to locate the person of interest. snowsurfgrid.com
Police have been careful not to release the detained person’s details, citing the early stages of the investigation. It remains unclear whether the individual will face charges or what motive, if any, might be established.
Authorities also emphasized that at this time they are not actively seeking additional suspects. That statement has provided some reassurance amid an otherwise tense situation.
A Call for Healing
Officials, community leaders, and students are now focused on recovery. Memorials and vigils are being planned to honour the victims. Counselors and support services are being made available across campus.
Residents near the university have been asked to remain vigilant but are now allowed to resume normal activities with greater awareness. The event has reignited broader discussions on campus safety and gun violence in the United States. snowsurfgrid.com
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the urgent need for community support in times of crisis. With the person of interest in custody, many hope this brings a step closer to answers and justice for those affected.