Brown University active shooter alert: What happened near campus?

Brown University issued an active shooter alert on December 14, 2025, after multiple people were reported shot near campus buildings in Providence, Rhode Island. Police said the incident occurred close to the Barus and Holley building during final exam week.

Authorities urged students and staff to shelter in place as officers searched for a suspect. Officials cautioned that details were still emerging and asked the public to avoid the area.

Key details in the Brown University active shooter response

The Brown University active shooter alert was sent after reports of gunfire near the Barus and Holley building, which houses the School of Engineering and physics department. The seven-storey facility contains more than 100 laboratories and dozens of classrooms and offices.

Providence police confirmed that multiple people were shot but did not immediately release information about the victims’ conditions. Law enforcement sources said officers were actively investigating and securing the surrounding area.

Brown initially notified the campus community that a suspect had been taken into custody. That information was later corrected. The university clarified that police were still searching for a suspect or suspects and that the situation remained active.

Students and staff received clear safety instructions through the university’s emergency system. The message urged people to lock doors, silence phones, stay hidden, and follow standard active shooter guidance. Those outside the affected area were advised to avoid campus and nearby streets.

Police activity expanded after additional reports of shots fired near Governor Street. Officers from multiple agencies responded, and emergency medical teams were staged nearby to treat any victims.

Kristy DosReis, the city of Providence’s chief public information officer, said investigators were still gathering information from the scene. Officials stressed that early reports could change as facts were confirmed.

The university confirmed that it was coordinating closely with local and state law enforcement. Campus officials emphasized that safety updates would continue as the response progressed.

How the incident affects campus and the surrounding area

The Brown University active shooter incident unfolded while final exams were underway. Many academic buildings were locked down as a precaution, and campus movement was restricted.

Students reported receiving repeated alerts reminding them to remain sheltered. University officials said these measures were necessary due to the evolving nature of the threat.

In the broader Providence area, traffic restrictions were reported near campus streets as police secured perimeters. Residents were advised to follow official instructions and avoid spreading unverified information.

Authorities have not announced a motive or confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or random. Investigators said those details would only be released once verified.

The Brown University active shooter alert remains a developing situation. Officials say public safety updates will continue until the threat is resolved.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What triggered the Brown University active shooter alert?

The alert was triggered after reports that multiple people were shot near campus buildings. Police confirmed gunfire near the Barus and Holley building.

Q2: Where did the shooting near Brown University take place?

The reported shooting occurred near the Barus and Holley engineering building. Additional gunfire reports later emerged near Governor Street.

Q3: Has a suspect been arrested?

No arrest has been confirmed. Brown University corrected an earlier message and said police were still searching for a suspect or suspects.

Q4: What were students and staff told to do?

They were instructed to shelter in place, lock doors, silence phones, and stay hidden. Officials advised avoiding the area until further notice.

Q5: Are classes or exams canceled?

The university has not announced exam cancellations. Officials said academic decisions would be communicated after the situation stabilizes.