Law enforcement is actively pursuing leads in the wake of a tragic shooting that occurred on the campus of Brown University. Authorities have established a dedicated tip line, urging anyone with information that could assist in locating the shooter to come forward. The Providence City Council shared a direct link online shortly after 10:00 p.m. on Saturday, stating, “If you have information, tips, or video you believe may be pertinent to today’s shooting, please share it at http://fbi.gov/brownuniversityshooting.”
The incident, which unfolded earlier on Saturday afternoon, resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals. The shooter opened fire inside a first-floor classroom within the engineering building. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported beyond the fatalities.
During a press conference held late Saturday night, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley provided an update on the investigation. He indicated that the suspect is believed to be a male in his 30s. A law enforcement official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to discuss the ongoing investigation, confirmed that authorities suspect the shooter utilized a handgun.
This incident occurs against a backdrop of stringent gun control measures in Rhode Island. The state’s Democratic-controlled Legislature enacted an assault weapon ban last spring. This legislation, set to take effect next July, will prohibit the sale and manufacturing of specific high-powered firearms, though it will not outlaw their possession.
Governor Dan McKee of Rhode Island expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The unthinkable has happened.” Mayor Smiley also confirmed that a shelter-in-place order was in effect for the area surrounding the campus. He strongly advised residents to remain indoors and refrain from returning to their homes until the order is lifted. Mayor Smiley assured the public that “all available resources” are being deployed in the effort to apprehend the suspect.
An earlier update at 9:30 p.m. from Mayor Smiley revised the number of injured individuals to nine. This adjustment was made after a victim realized they had sustained injuries from shrapnel or fragments resulting from the shooting. The injuries sustained by this latest victim are not considered life-threatening.
How to Submit Information
The FBI has provided a dedicated portal for individuals to submit any relevant information:
- Website: https://tips.fbi.gov/digitalmedia/614ee3a4a073699
Authorities are emphasizing the importance of any details, no matter how seemingly insignificant, that could aid in the investigation. This includes eyewitness accounts, potential video footage, or any other intelligence that might help law enforcement track down the perpetrator.
This is a rapidly developing situation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to exercise caution.