Providence, R.I., December 14, 2025 (Agencies) – A shooter dressed in black killed at least two people and wounded nine others during final exams at Brown University on Saturday, prompting a massive police search across the Ivy League campus and surrounding neighborhoods.
University President Christina Paxson said she was informed that 10 of those shot were students. Another person was injured by fragments, though it was unclear if that victim was a student.
The suspect, described as a man in dark clothing possibly wearing a camouflage mask, was last seen leaving the Barus & Holley engineering building where the attack occurred, according to Providence police deputy chief Timothy O’Hara. Security footage showed the suspect walking away, but his face was not visible.
Authorities believe the shooter used a handgun. Investigators are still determining how he gained access to the first-floor classroom, as outer doors were unlocked but exam rooms required badge access.
Governor Dan McKee called the incident “unthinkable” and vowed to deploy all resources to apprehend the suspect. Mayor Brett Smiley said a shelter-in-place order remained in effect, urging residents near the campus to stay indoors. Streets that normally bustle with weekend activity were eerily quiet. “The Brown community’s heart is breaking, and Providence’s heart is breaking along with it,” Smiley said.
Witnesses described scenes of panic. Emma Ferraro, a chemical engineering student, said she heard loud pops before realizing they were gunshots. She fled the building and sheltered nearby for several hours.
Nine victims with gunshot wounds were taken to Rhode Island Hospital. One was in critical condition, six required intensive care, and two were stable, according to hospital spokesperson Kelly Brennan.
Police evacuated several campus buildings hours after the attack, leading students in tactical gear to a fitness center. University officials initially reported a suspect in custody, but later clarified that the person detained was not involved.
The shooting occurred in the Barus & Holley building, a seven-story complex housing the School of Engineering and physics department, with more than 100 laboratories and dozens of classrooms. Engineering design exams were underway when the gunman opened fire.