Shooting at Brown University: Dead and wounded, Trump comments
A tragic incident has shaken the academic community in Rhode Island, where two people were killed and eight others seriously injured in a shooting on the campus of the prestigious Brown University. Local officials confirmed that the perpetrator remains at large, prompting a large-scale security operation in the area surrounding the university.
Details of the horrific incident
In an urgent press conference, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley stated, “I can confirm that two people died this afternoon, and eight others are in critical but stable condition.” Reports indicate the shooting occurred in the Barrows and Holly Building, which houses the engineering and physics departments, at a critical time when numerous student exams were scheduled.
Brown University issued an emergency alert at 4:22 p.m. local time, warning of an “active shooter” and instructing all students and staff to lock their doors and phones and shelter in place until further notice. Student Katie Sun, an eyewitness, told the Brown Daily Herald that she had to flee, leaving her belongings behind, after hearing gunshots that seemed very close to the classrooms.
Security alert and pursuit of the perpetrator
Law enforcement continues its intensive search for the suspect, described by police as a man dressed entirely in black. Deputy Police Chief Timothy O'Hara confirmed that all available resources are being utilized to apprehend the perpetrator, emphasizing the need for everyone to follow security instructions and stay away from the area. For his part, FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed via the X platform that the agency is placing all its capabilities at the disposal of local authorities to handle the situation.
Brown University: A legacy under fire
This incident has garnered widespread attention due to Brown University's prestigious standing. Founded in 1764, Brown is a member of the Ivy League, the prestigious association of eight universities in the United States. Located in Providence, Ohio, the university has approximately 11,000 students and is historically known for its safe and distinguished academic environment. This security breach represents a significant blow to an institution considered a cornerstone of higher education worldwide, raising serious questions about security procedures at major academic institutions.
Reactions and the gun crisis in America
On the political front, President Donald Trump commented on the incident, describing it as "horrible" and adding, "All we can do now is pray for the victims." This incident has reopened the debate surrounding gun violence in American educational institutions, a sensitive and complex issue that deeply divides American society.
School and university shootings in the United States are a recurring and alarming phenomenon, with statistics indicating a rise in the frequency of these attacks in recent years. Despite persistent calls from civil society organizations and activists for stricter gun control measures, legislation continues to face significant political and legal hurdles. The Brown University incident underscores this ongoing security challenge, which threatens student safety and places a heavy responsibility on educational institutions to protect their members.
