PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Following a tragic shooting incident at Brown University that claimed the lives of two students and left nine others injured, law enforcement officials are intensifying efforts to locate the assailant. Authorities have canvassed neighborhoods for surveillance footage and evidence, and on Monday, they released new videos showing a suspect moving around the campus prior to the attack, dressed in a mask and dark clothing.
The FBI has identified the suspect as being approximately 5 feet, 8 inches tall with a stocky build, offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the suspect's identification and arrest.
Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez appealed to the community for assistance, urging anyone with information to come forward. Following the attack, a person of interest was briefly detained but was released after it was determined they were not connected to the crime.
The abrupt change in direction has generated frustrations surrounding campus safety protocols and the effectiveness of current security measures, particularly as the investigation revealed a lack of surveillance cameras in key areas.
The shooting occurred while students were gathered for final exams, instating chaos on campus. Governor Dan McKee has requested increased police presence in local schools to help reassure the community.
A memorial service is scheduled for Tuesday evening to honor the victims, Ella Cook, aged 19, and MukhammadAziz Umurzokov, 18. Both students were beloved in their respective communities and exemplified resilience in their academic pursuits.
As the investigation continues to unfold, detailed accounts of witnesses highlight the panic that ensued during the shooting, amplifying the need for thorough investigations and essential dialogues about security in academic institutions.
