Brown University Shooting Suspect Released as Investigation Shifts Direction

A person of interest in the Brown University mass shooting has been released from custody. Providence police detained the man on Sunday, a day after the deadly attack. The shooting left two students dead and nine others injured on campus.

Officials announced the release during a late-night news conference. They stated the investigation is now moving in a “different direction.” The case remains unsolved as authorities continue their search.

Police Detail Changing Stance on Detained Individual

Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez confirmed the man’s initial detention earlier Sunday. The individual was taken into custody in Coventry, Rhode Island. Federal agents had used cellular data analysis to locate him, according to the FBI.

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha explained the decision to release him. He said there was sufficient evidence to justify the original detention as a person of interest. However, the focus of the probe has now changed based on new developments.

Authorities are now seeking an unidentified person seen in surveillance footage. The video shows an individual dressed in black near the engineering building. Officials believe this person is the key suspect they are still trying to locate.

Campus Reels from Deadly Attack During Exam Period

The shooting occurred in the Barus & Holley engineering and physics building. Outer doors were reportedly unlocked during final exams. The gunman fled the scene after opening fire in a classroom.

According to Reuters, this is one of nearly 400 mass shootings in the U.S. this year. Brown University President Christina Paxson said nearly all victims were students. The school canceled all exams and classes for the remainder of the academic year.

The campus was quiet and covered in light snow on Sunday. A shelter-in-place order for the university and surrounding area was lifted. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley said the community should expect a continued visible police presence.

The investigation into the Brown University shooting suspect remains active and urgent. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward immediately.

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Why was the person of interest in the Brown University shooting released?

Rhode Island authorities stated the investigation took a new direction. While initial evidence justified his detention, further investigation led to his release without charges. The active search for the shooter continues.

What is the current status of the injured students?

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley provided an update on Sunday. Seven injured individuals were in stable condition, while one remained in critical but stable condition. One victim had already been discharged from the hospital.

How did authorities initially track the detained person?

An FBI team specializing in cellular data analysis located him. They used geolocation information to find him in a Coventry hotel room. This was confirmed in a statement by federal officials.

What is the impact on the Brown University campus?

The university canceled all final exams and classes. The campus was under a shelter-in-place order that has since been lifted. The community is grappling with the tragic loss and injuries.

What support is available for students and families?

University crisis counselors are available for all affected students. Officials are also working to contact all victims’ families, some of whom were traveling. Community vigils and support events are being organized.