Brown University has become the scene of a tragic and developing emergency following a mass shooting that has left the campus and the city of Providence in shock. Authorities have confirmed multiple casualties, and a massive manhunt is currently underway for the suspect, who remains at large. Students and staff have been ordered to shelter in place as law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, descend on the Ivy League campus.
Why This Topic Is Trending Right Now
The phrase Brown University has skyrocketed to the top of Google Trends and social media platforms worldwide. The situation is critical, with search terms like “Brown University active shooter,” “Providence shooting,” and “mass shooting Brown University” spiking vertically over the last hour.
On X (formerly Twitter) and local news outlets like WJAR, the hashtag #BrownUniversity is trending as worried parents and students share updates. The shock of an active shooter event taking place at one of the nation’s most prestigious Ivy League schools during final exams has drawn global attention, making this the biggest breaking news story of the moment.
Full Story Explained: Tragedy in Providence
According to the latest updates from Providence Mayor Brett Smiley and campus officials, the shooting at Brown University has resulted in at least two deaths, with eight others critically injured and hospitalized.
The incident unfolded at the Barus and Holley building, a facility housing the university’s engineering and physics departments. It was built in 1965 and contains over 100 laboratories and classrooms. Terrifyingly, final exams were taking place between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. when the violence began, trapping students inside.
Police have described the suspect as a male dressed in black. Providence Deputy Chief of Police Tim O’Hara stated that while they do not know how the gunman entered, he was seen exiting through the Hope Street side of the building.
As of now, there is no shooter in custody. Mayor Smiley confirmed that local police are working in close coordination with the FBI to locate the perpetrator.
Key Moments, Reactions & Highlights
The atmosphere at Brown University is one of fear and confusion. Here are the critical updates:
- Student Accounts: Chiangheng Chien, a doctoral engineering student, told local reporters that he and three others hid under their desks for two hours after receiving the campus alert. They shut off the lights and locked the doors until armed police officers evacuated them.
- False Alarm Nearby: There was a brief panic regarding a secondary shooting near Governor Street. However, university officials have since clarified that this report was unfounded, though the shelter-in-place order remains critical.
- Police Confrontation: Sources indicate that police engaged in a confrontation with an individual a few blocks away that resulted in gunfire, but it is currently unclear if this incident is connected to the Brown University shooter.
For more breaking news updates and safety alerts, stay tuned to our global news section on HausaTracks.
What Happens Next
The immediate priority is the apprehension of the suspect. The Brown University community has been directed to continue sheltering in place. Provost Francis Doyle announced that students who were evacuated have been relocated to a secure location for support services.
Federal agencies, including the ATF and FBI, are assisting the Providence Police Department. President Donald Trump has also been briefed on the situation. We expect a press conference with further details on the victims and the manhunt shortly.
Final Thoughts
This is a developing and heartbreaking situation. Our thoughts are with the victims and the entire Brown University family during this dark time. We urge everyone in the Providence, Rhode Island area to stay indoors and follow police instructions.
Please share this article to help spread safety information to those in the area.
Source: CNN
