Two killed, nine injured as gunman opens fire during exam at Brown University; suspect still at large
At least two people were killed and nine others wounded after a gunman stormed an engineering building at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, and opened fire during a final examination on Saturday, authorities said.
The attacker, described as a man dressed in dark clothing, entered a first-floor classroom in the Barus & Holley building—home to the university’s School of Engineering and physics department—where students were sitting an exam. One of the injured victims remains in critical condition.
Brown University President Christina Paxson said 10 of those shot were students, while another person sustained injuries from fragments caused by the gunfire. It remains unclear whether that individual was also a student.
Providence police launched an extensive manhunt across the Ivy League campus and surrounding residential neighbourhoods, searching academic buildings, backyards and porches late into the night. Deputy Police Chief Timothy O’Hara said the suspect was last seen leaving the engineering building, with security footage showing him walking away, though his face was not visible. Witnesses reported he may have been wearing a camouflage mask and could be in his 30s.
Investigators are examining how the gunman accessed the classroom. While the building’s outer doors were unlocked, classrooms hosting final exams typically require badge access, according to Providence Mayor Brett P. Smiley. An official familiar with the investigation said the shooter is believed to have used a handgun.
Nine people with gunshot wounds were taken to Rhode Island Hospital, hospital spokesperson Kelly Brennan confirmed. One patient was listed in critical condition, six required intensive care but were stable, and two others were in stable condition.
A shelter-in-place order remained in effect for much of the day, with residents near the campus urged to stay indoors. Streets around the normally busy area were largely deserted as heavily armed law enforcement officers secured the scene.
Governor Dan McKee described the shooting as “unthinkable” and said all available resources were being deployed to apprehend the suspect. Mayor Smiley said the city was united in grief alongside the university community.
Some students reported hearing loud popping sounds and sheltering in place for several hours before police in tactical gear escorted them to safety at a nearby fitness centre.
US President Donald Trump said he had been briefed on the incident, adding that the nation was praying for the victims.
Rhode Island enforces some of the strictest gun laws in the United States. An assault weapons ban passed earlier this year is due to take effect next July, prohibiting the sale and manufacture of certain high-powered firearms, though possession will remain legal.
Investigations into the shooting are ongoing.
