PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The search for the suspect in the tragic shooting at Brown University, which left two students dead and nine injured, has intensified following the release of a person of interest by police, signaling a complication in the investigation.
Officials announced the man’s release after determining that the evidence pointed towards a different suspect, which left the investigation at a standstill. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley assured the community that there were no credible threats following the incident, even as anxiety hung in the air.
“We have a murderer out there,” stated Attorney General Peter Neronha as officials pledged to accelerate their investigation, focusing on securing video surveillance that might help establish the shooter’s identity.
During the weekend, authorities apprehended a Wisconsin man at a hotel in Coventry, approximately 20 miles from the university but quickly let go. Despite the uncertainty, officials confirmed that they are now zeroing in on a suspect depicted in video footage who was seen walking away from the scene.
As final exams commenced, the shooting occurred in an engineering classroom, unleashing chaos as about 40 rounds were fired from a handgun. This led to an immediate lockdown on campus as police scoured the area, urging students to stay indoors.
The attack disturbed a critical academic period, forcing Brown to cancel remaining classes and exams for the semester. In the aftermath, community members gathered to remember the victims, showcasing resilience and solidarity.
Amidst growing concern and a heavy police presence, city leaders remain optimistic about recovering from the shock of the incident. “The resilience that these survivors showed is frankly pretty overwhelming,” remarked Mayor Smiley after visiting the wounded in hospitals.
