Brown University Shooting Incident Summary
On Saturday afternoon, a shooting occurred within the Barus & Holley engineering and physics building at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. The incident took place during scheduled final examinations for an economics class.
Casualties and Condition Reports
The event resulted in the deaths of two students and injuries to nine other individuals. As of Sunday, seven of the injured were reported in critical but stable condition, while one remained in critical condition. One additional victim was treated at a hospital and subsequently discharged.
Investigation and Apprehension
Providence, R.I., officials reported on Sunday morning the detention of a person of interest, identified as Benjamin Erickson, a man in his 20s. He was apprehended in a hotel room in Coventry, approximately 20 miles southwest of the Brown University campus, based on information from the Providence Police, as confirmed by FBI Director Kash Patel. Investigators previously sought a suspect described as "a male dressed in black," who reportedly fled the scene on foot. Entry into the building typically requires card access; however, university officials noted periods of high traffic during exam times. Authorities have not released details regarding a motive. Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez stated on Sunday that the investigation is ongoing and that no other individuals are actively being sought.
Institutional Response
Brown University President Christina Paxson addressed the situation, highlighting the impact on the community. Providence Mayor Brett P. Smiley also issued a statement regarding the incident. In response to the event, Brown University Provost Francis Doyle announced the cancellation of nearly all remaining in-person exams for the fall semester to focus university resources on community support. A shelter-in-place order for the Brown campus and adjacent areas was lifted Sunday morning. President Trump offered condolences to the victims and their families.