WASHINGTON
At least two people were killed and eight critically injured Saturday in a shooting at Brown University in the US city of Providence, Rhode Island, as authorities said the suspect remains at large and a shelter-in-place order is in effect.
“I can confirm that there are two individuals who have died this afternoon and there are another eight in critical status, though stable at Rhode Island Hospital,” Mayor Brett Smiley told reporters at a news conference, alongside city authorities and Brown University officials.
Authorities said the initial emergency call was received shortly after 4 pm (2100GMT) local time, prompting an immediate response by Brown University police, followed by Providence police, firefighters and emergency medical teams.
The shooting took place at the Barus and Holley Engineering Building on campus, which houses classrooms and laboratory spaces. Police said officers immediately entered the building and carried out a systematic search but did not locate a suspect.
Police said the suspect is believed to be a male dressed in black who exited the building. No suspects have been arrested, and the motive remains unknown.
A shelter-in-place order remains in effect for the greater Brown University area, with officials urging residents to stay indoors and avoid returning to the area until authorities declare it safe. Police said the order should be taken seriously as the search continues.
Fire officials said 10 victims were identified, with eight transported to a hospital in critical but stable condition, while two were pronounced dead at the scene.
Rescue teams, operating alongside police, continued searching campus buildings to ensure no additional victims.
Authorities said multiple agencies are involved in the response, including state police, the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Officials said federal and local agencies are coordinating closely as the investigation remains active.
Brown University said it is setting up a family reunification center and will provide updates through official channels. Officials declined to release details about the victims, including whether they were students or staff, citing the early stage of the investigation.
