🚨 BREAKING: Active Shooter Reported Near Brown University Campus in Rhode Island
Providence, R.I. — Authorities are responding to reports of an active shooter on or near the campus of Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, prompting an immediate shelter-in-place order for students, faculty, and staff.
Brown University’s Department of Public Safety confirmed the incident in an emergency alert issued this afternoon, initially stating that one suspect had been taken into custody. However, the university later walked back that claim, clarifying that no suspect is currently in custody and that law enforcement is actively searching for one or more individuals.
📍 Location and Ongoing Threat
The reported shooting activity was first believed to be near Barus & Holley Engineering, with later updates indicating additional gunshots reported near Governor Street, approximately two blocks east of the initial area near Hope Street.
University officials instructed everyone on campus to:
- Lock doors
- Silence mobile phones
- Shelter in place
- Stay clear of the Barus & Holley area
🎓 Student Accounts
A student told The Brown Daily Herald that she was studying inside the Engineering Research Center lobby around 4:10 p.m. when she heard gunshots.
“It was honestly quite terrifying,” the student said, adding that she evacuated immediately and returned to her dorm, leaving her belongings behind.
🚓 Law Enforcement Response
Providence Police confirmed a heavy police and fire presence near Brown University and urged the public to avoid the area until further notice. Multiple law enforcement agencies and emergency medical teams are on scene coordinating the response.
⚠️ Situation Developing
As of the latest update, officials have not confirmed any injuries and have not released details about a suspect or motive. The shelter-in-place order remains active while the search continues.
University officials say further updates will be issued as more information becomes available.
🕯️ This is a developing story.