A massive police operation is underway in Providence, Rhode Island, following a deadly shooting at Brown University, one of the nation’s prestigious Ivy League institutions. Authorities have confirmed that two people were killed and nine others injured, while a “person of interest” has been detained in connection with the attack.

Timeline of the Shooting

The shooting occurred on the afternoon of December 14, 2025, at Brown’s Barus and Holley building, which houses the School of Engineering and the Physics Department. Students were taking exams when a suspect armed with a firearm opened fire, leaving two dead and eight critically injured. Another victim suffered injuries from bullet fragments.

The university became aware of the attack around 4:05 p.m. local time (21:05 GMT), when a 911 call was received. Seventeen minutes later, Brown University issued its first emergency alert, warning of an active gunman near the engineering building and instructing students and staff to silence their phones and seek shelter.

Manhunt and Detention

Following the shooting, a massive law enforcement response was launched, with more than 400 officers, including agents from the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), involved in securing the campus and surrounding neighborhoods.

Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez confirmed that a person of interest in his 30s had been detained early Sunday morning. At this time, authorities are not seeking any additional suspects. Police continue to treat parts of the campus as an active crime scene while investigating the motive and circumstances surrounding the attack.

Suspect Information

Officials released video footage of the suspect, described as a male possibly in his 30s, dressed in black. Deputy Police Chief Timothy O’Hara noted that the attacker may have been wearing a mask, although this has not been confirmed. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley emphasized that there is currently no ongoing threat to the public.

Response from Brown University and Community Leaders

University President Christina Paxson confirmed that the victims are students, though their identities have not yet been publicly released. The campus was placed under lockdown during the manhunt, which was later lifted after the suspect’s detention.

In response to the tragedy, President Donald Trump stated at the White House that the situation was “terrible,” urging the public to pray for the victims and the injured. Local leaders also praised the swift action of law enforcement and emergency personnel in containing the situation.

Background on Brown University

Founded in 1764, Brown University is among the oldest and most selective universities in the United States. With a student population of approximately 11,000, the university admits only about 5 percent of applicants annually. Its reputation for academic excellence and selective admissions makes the attack particularly shocking to both the local community and the nation.

Investigations Underway

Police have collected shell casings and other evidence from the scene while investigating the suspect’s motive and the selection of the target. Authorities continue to work closely with federal agencies to ensure all leads are thoroughly examined and the campus remains secure.

Impact on the Community

The Brown University shooting has stunned the Ivy League institution, the city of Providence, and the nation. Campus officials, students, and faculty have expressed profound grief, while law enforcement authorities continue their commitment to ensuring public safety and bringing justice for the victims.

This tragic event is part of a broader pattern of school shootings in the United States, highlighting ongoing concerns around campus security, gun violence, and public safety measures in educational institutions.