Authorities Renew Search for Brown University Shooter as Investigation Shifts Direction
Law enforcement agencies on Monday intensified their search for the suspect behind the deadly Brown University shooting after confirming that a previously detained person of interest has been released, signaling a major shift in the ongoing investigation.
At a late Sunday news briefing, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley and senior Rhode Island officials said investigators are now pursuing “a different direction” as they work to identify the gunman responsible for the violent campus attack.
“We have not yet solved this case,” Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha said. “But I am confident that law enforcement is making progress and that we will reach a resolution in the near future.”
Authorities declined to explain why the individual was initially taken into custody or why they were later released. While several media outlets had reported the person’s identity based on law enforcement briefings, major news organizations have since stopped naming the individual, noting that no charges were filed and the person was never officially identified as a suspect.
University Urges Vigilance as Police Investigation Continues
Following the announcement, Brown University officials released a campus-wide statement late Sunday, urging students, faculty, and staff to remain cautious as the investigation remains active.
“We recognize that this development may raise many questions,” the university said. “However, this is an ongoing police investigation, and the University must defer to the Providence Police Department to share updates as they determine appropriate.”
School leaders emphasized the importance of personal safety and situational awareness while law enforcement continues its search for the Brown University shooting suspect.
Deadly Shooting Shakes Ivy League Campus
The shooting, which occurred as students were taking final exams ahead of winter break, left at least two students dead and nine others injured. The attack sent shockwaves through the Brown University community and across Rhode Island, renewing national conversations around campus security and gun violence at U.S. universities.
In response to the tragedy, Brown University canceled all remaining classes and examinations for the academic year. By Sunday, the normally bustling campus was nearly deserted, with a light snowfall blanketing the historic grounds.
Victims Remembered as Community Mourns
One of the victims was identified as Ella Cook, a Brown University student and parishioner at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham, Alabama. Church leaders confirmed her death during Sunday services on December 14, remembering her as a “bright light” whose life was cut tragically short.
Memorials and vigils are expected in the coming days as students, faculty, and families grieve the loss and support those injured in the attack.
Search for Suspect Ongoing
Authorities continue to urge anyone with information related to the Brown University campus shooting or the identity of the gunman to contact law enforcement immediately. State and local police, along with federal agencies, remain involved in the expanding manhunt.
As the investigation unfolds, officials stress that public safety remains their top priority, warning that the suspect may still be at large while the search continues.
