The gunman remains at large after a shooting on Saturday at Brown University that killed two students and injured nine others. A 24-year-old Wisconsin man who had initially been detained as a person of interest in the attack has been released, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley announced on Sunday night.
The shooting has shattered one of America’s most prestigious universities during final exam week. The gunman reportedly fired more than 40 rounds from a 9mm handgun in a first-floor classroom at the Barus & Holley building.
Police recovered two loaded 30-round magazines, but have not found the weapon. The shooter’s identity remains unknown.
Surveillance footage shows a male suspect dressed in black calmly walking away from the scene. Some witnesses reported the gunman wore a camouflage mask during the attack.
“Everybody’s reeling, and we have a lot of recovery ahead of us,” Brown President Christina Paxson said at Sunday’s news conference, per Fox 4 KDFW.
One victim has been identified as Ella Cook, 19, whose Alabama church described her as a “bright light” who “encouraged and lifted up those around her.” Cook’s death was announced during Sunday services at Birmingham’s Cathedral Church of the Advent.
Nine shooting victims were transported to Rhode Island Hospital. One remains in critical condition, six required intensive care, and two were stable, according to hospital spokesperson Kelly Brennan.
The attack occurred Saturday afternoon in the engineering and physics complex, which houses more than 100 laboratories and dozens of classrooms. Police remain uncertain how the shooter accessed the classroom, as exam rooms required badge entry despite unlocked outer doors.
Students sheltered in place for hours as tactical officers swept the campus. Many were evacuated — without jackets or belongings — to a fitness center.
Brown has canceled all remaining semester activities.
“At this time, it is essential that we focus our efforts on providing care and support to the members of our community as we grapple with the sorrow, fear and anxiety that is impacting all of us right now,” Provost Francis Doyle said in a statement, per Fox 4.
The shooting has stunned Rhode Island, which maintains some of America’s strictest gun laws. Local businesses closed Sunday as the community processed the tragedy.
Brown, the nation’s seventh-oldest university, enrolls roughly 7,300 undergraduates and 3,000 graduate students. Annual costs approach $100,000.
Providence leaders warned residents to expect increased police presence as the investigation continues.
