In brief
The search continues for the gunman who killed two Brown University students and injured nine others. Police recently released a person of interest, marking a setback in their investigation. The community remains anxious, with authorities urging vigilance despite no credible threats reported since the incident. A video clip is now a primary focus for identifying the shooter, while campus lockdown measures have been lifted as the investigation unfolds.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Police renewed their search Monday for the gunman who killed two Brown University students and wounded nine others a day earlier, after releasing a person of interest based on evidence that indicated a different direction.
During a late Sunday news conference, authorities confirmed that they had previously detained a man at a hotel about 20 miles from campus, only to discover that their initial leads were leading them away from the right suspect.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley expressed understanding of the community's anxiety but reassured residents that there were no credible threats following the shooting.
No Suspect Identified
With the release of the person of interest, law enforcement's lack of a clear suspect heightens tensions within the community. Officials have committed to intensifying efforts, focusing on video surveillance and community tips to help track down the shooter. “We have a murderer out there,” stated Attorney General Peter Neronha.
Authorities believe they are looking for a figure seen in a brief video clip, which has since become a focal point of the investigation. Mayor Smiley added that the evidence collected thus far does not indicate the involvement of anyone beyond that solitary individual.
Despite increased police presence at Brown University, officials opted not to implement an additional shelter-in-place order similar to the one that ensued after the shooting, during which hundreds of officers searched for the assailant while urging people to stay indoors.
Details of the Shooting
The tragic shooting unfolded in a busy classroom just as final exams were set to commence, with reports indicating that more than 40 rounds were fired from a 9 mm handgun. According to an anonymous law enforcement source, officials recovered two handguns and magazines containing rounds from the individual taken into custody.
The chaotic scene that followed the attack caught the attention of many, as lockdown measures left some students barricaded and others hiding during the extensive police operation. In a gathering to honor the victims, the community demonstrated resilience and solidarity, coming together during what was meant to be a festive occasion.
All remaining classes and exams for the semester have been canceled at Brown, a prestigious institution with over 7,300 undergraduates. The painful aftermath of this incident is a stark reminder of ongoing concerns regarding campus safety and gun violence.
