A deadly shooting at Brown University on Saturday, December 13, 2025, brought fear, lockdowns, and a massive police response to providence rhode island, as authorities worked to secure the campus and search for those responsible. The incident unfolded during a busy exam period, leaving students, faculty, and residents grappling with uncertainty while investigators confirmed casualties and injuries.
Timeline of the incident
The shooting was reported near Brown University’s engineering area during daytime hours, when many students were on campus preparing for or completing final exams. Emergency alerts were quickly sent to phones and email systems, warning people to shelter in place and avoid the affected zone.
Within minutes, police vehicles and emergency medical teams converged on the area. Streets surrounding campus were blocked off as officers began methodical building checks and crowd control.
Location at the center of the response
Authorities confirmed the incident occurred in and around the university’s engineering complex, including areas close to the Barus & Holley buildings. These facilities house classrooms, laboratories, and study spaces and are typically active throughout the day.
The proximity to main pedestrian routes increased the urgency of the response, as officials moved quickly to reduce further risk and keep people away from the scene.
Confirmed loss of life and injuries
As of the most recent verified updates, at least two people were killed in the shooting. Eight others were injured and transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Officials stated that the injured victims were in critical but stable condition at the time of the latest confirmation. No additional fatalities were reported in the verified information available today.
Emergency medical response
First responders treated victims at the scene before transporting them to hospitals across the city. Ambulances were seen entering and leaving the secured area as police maintained perimeters and cleared buildings.
Medical teams coordinated closely with law enforcement to ensure safe access routes while the search for the suspect or suspects continued.
Suspect search remains active
Authorities confirmed that no suspect was in custody in the latest verified reporting. Early public confusion about a possible arrest was later corrected, with officials clarifying that the investigation was ongoing.
Police emphasized that the situation was active during much of the response, prompting continued shelter-in-place instructions until key areas were cleared.
Shelter-in-place and lockdown measures
Brown University instructed students, faculty, and staff to remain indoors, lock doors, and stay away from windows. Academic buildings and residence halls were placed under lockdown protocols as officers conducted room-by-room checks in certain areas.
These safety measures remained in effect for hours, disrupting exams, classes, and campus operations.
Impact on students and faculty
The timing of the shooting, during finals, intensified anxiety across campus. Students reported being confined to classrooms, dorm rooms, and libraries while waiting for official updates.
Faculty members adjusted exam schedules and academic plans as safety took priority. University officials continued to communicate through emergency alerts to keep the campus informed.
Law enforcement coordination
Providence police and Brown University police led the response, supported by additional law enforcement resources as the investigation expanded. Officers focused on securing buildings, managing traffic, and preserving the scene for investigators.
Authorities did not release details about the weapon involved or the number of suspects, citing the need to protect the integrity of the investigation.
Community reaction
The shooting deeply affected the broader community beyond campus. Residents near Brown reported road closures, heavy police presence, and prolonged disruptions as officers worked through the area.
Local leaders described the event as tragic and unsettling, reflecting growing concerns about safety in educational settings.
What officials have not released
Despite confirmed casualty numbers, several details remain undisclosed in the verified updates:
- The identities of the victims
- The motive behind the shooting
- Whether one or multiple suspects were involved
- Specific details about the weapon used
Authorities typically delay releasing such information until families are notified and investigative steps are completed.
Ongoing investigation
Investigators are continuing to collect evidence, review surveillance footage, and interview witnesses. Police are also analyzing movements around campus before and after the shooting to establish a clear sequence of events.
Officials have indicated that further updates will be shared once additional facts are confirmed.
Safety considerations moving forward
University administrators are expected to review security protocols following the incident. While no policy changes have been announced in verified updates, campus safety remains a central concern as students and staff process what occurred.
Counseling and support services are expected to be made available as the community copes with the aftermath.
A city and campus in mourning
The shooting has left a lasting impact on Brown University and providence rhode island, marking one of the most serious incidents in recent campus history. Vigils and expressions of solidarity have emerged across the city as residents await answers.
Verified facts at a glance
- Date of incident: December 13, 2025
- Location: Brown University engineering area
- Fatalities: At least two
- Injured: Eight, reported as critical but stable
- Suspect status: No one in custody as of latest update
As the investigation continues, officials stress the importance of relying on confirmed information and following guidance issued by authorities.