Active Shooter Alert Prompts Shelter-in-Place at Brown University
Providence, Rhode Island – Authorities have issued an urgent shelter-in-place directive for residents in the vicinity of Brown University, following reports of an active shooter on campus. The incident, which began unfolding this afternoon, has prompted a significant law enforcement response and raised serious concerns for the safety of students, faculty, and the surrounding community.
The initial alert came around 4:22 PM local time when the prestigious Ivy League institution released an emergency notification. The university stated that a gunman was reported in the proximity of the Barus and Holley engineering lab. In response, students and staff were instructed to take immediate safety measures.
The university’s emergency communication emphasized a three-step protocol for active shooter situations:
- RUN: If individuals are in the affected area, they are advised to evacuate safely if possible. This means moving away from the danger zone, leaving belongings behind, and helping others escape if feasible.
- HIDE: If evacuation is not a viable option, individuals are instructed to find a secure place to hide. This involves locking doors, silencing mobile phones, and remaining out of sight until further notice.
- FIGHT: As a last resort, and only when life is in imminent danger, individuals are encouraged to take action to protect themselves. This could involve using any available object as a weapon or acting with extreme aggression to disrupt or incapacitate the attacker.
Later in the evening, at approximately 5:27 PM local time, the university provided an update indicating that shots had been fired in a new location, specifically near Governor Street. This area is situated about two blocks away from the initial reported incident.
Shortly after this second report, the Providence Police Department confirmed the gravity of the situation, announcing, “Multiple shot in the area of Brown University.” This statement underscored the potentially widespread nature of the threat and the ongoing danger.
Earlier in the day, there was a brief period of confusion when the university had initially indicated that a suspect had been apprehended. However, this information was quickly clarified and withdrawn. University officials stated definitively, “Police do not have a suspect in custody and continue to search for suspect(s).” This retraction highlights the fluid and developing nature of the investigation and the continued presence of a potential threat.
The full scope of injuries is still being assessed, but initial reports suggest that multiple individuals may have been injured in the attack. Emergency medical services have been mobilized and are on standby, prepared to provide assistance to any victims.
The Providence Police Department, in conjunction with Brown University’s Department of Public Safety, is leading a comprehensive investigation into the incident. Law enforcement agencies from surrounding areas have also been called in to assist with the search for the suspect(s) and to secure the campus and its environs. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown at this time.
Residents and anyone near the university are urged to continue to adhere to the shelter-in-place order and to stay informed through official channels. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops and more information becomes available. The priority remains the safety and security of the Brown University community and the wider Providence area.