Details of the Shooting
A mass shooting occurred on Saturday afternoon, December 13, 2025, at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, during final exams and review sessions. The incident took place inside the Barus & Holley engineering and physics building. Providence police confirmed that two students were killed and nine others were wounded when a gunman opened fire inside the building. The campus was placed on lockdown as law enforcement conducted an active search for the shooter, which was later lifted once the immediate threat was contained.
Victims and Medical Response
Officials confirmed that the two individuals who died were students at Brown University, and the nine wounded were transported to Rhode Island Hospital for treatment. Among those injured, several were reported in stable condition, one was in critical but stable condition, and at least one sustained a non‑life-threatening injury from fragments caused by the shooting. University leaders and hospital spokespeople acknowledged these details and worked closely with families to provide updates and support.
Law Enforcement and Person of Interest
Providence police confirmed that a person of interest in their 30s had been detained at a hotel in Coventry, Rhode Island, in connection with the shooting. Police and city officials stated that authorities were not currently seeking other suspects and that the FBI was assisting local investigators. Surveillance footage showed a person dressed in dark clothing believed to be connected to the incident. No charges had been filed at the time, and the investigation remained ongoing.
University Response and Community Impact
Brown University officials confirmed that the two deceased were students and that the shooting occurred during scheduled classes and exams. The university canceled all remaining academic activities for the semester, including exams, classes, papers, and projects. University leadership issued statements expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy and emphasized that counseling and support services were available for students, faculty, and staff affected by the incident. Vigils and memorial gatherings have been organized on campus to allow the community to grieve collectively.
Ongoing Investigation
Although a person of interest was taken into custody, authorities have not publicly identified the individual by name or confirmed a motive. Law enforcement continues to investigate all leads and encourages witnesses or anyone with relevant information, including surveillance footage, to come forward. Police and federal partners remain actively involved in the investigation, and segments of the Brown University campus remain secured as active investigation zones.
