Ivory Tower Tragedy: Active Shooter at Brown University Leaves Multiple Victims

Multiple people were shot at Brown University on Saturday. The incident occurred at the prestigious Ivy League campus in Providence, Rhode Island. A city official confirmed the active shooter situation. At least two fatalities have been reported.

Law enforcement officials carrying weapons gather near Brown University in Providence, R.I., on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, during the investigation of a shooting. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

The shooting unfolded during final exams. It has sent shockwaves through the academic community. Federal authorities, including the FBI, quickly responded to the scene.

Details of the Brown University Shooting Emerge

The shooting happened on the afternoon of December 13th. According to the Associated Press, it took place in an engineering building. Final exams were being conducted at the time. A gunman opened fire, creating chaos on campus.

Providence Deputy Police Chief Timothy O’Hara provided a description. He stated the suspect was a man dressed in black. The individual was last seen leaving the engineering building. Authorities later detained a person but cleared them of involvement.

The university issued an urgent alert on its website. It warned the campus community of an active shooter. The alert stated no suspect was in custody as of early evening. Local and federal law enforcement secured the area.

Campus and Community Reel from the Violence

The impact of this violence is profound. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley asked for prayers for the victims’ families. He acknowledged the coming holiday season. The community now faces a long and difficult healing process.

Such incidents shatter the perceived safety of academic institutions. Brown University is a historic and renowned Ivy League school. This event disrupts the lives of students, faculty, and staff. It also raises urgent questions about campus security nationwide.

The investigation is being led by multiple agencies. The FBI’s presence underscores the severity of the case. Authorities are working to determine the motive. They continue to piece together the sequence of events.

The Brown University shooting is a stark reminder of a pervasive national crisis. The search for answers and accountability is just beginning. The campus community must now navigate a path forward from this tragedy.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Where exactly is Brown University located?

Brown University is located in Providence, Rhode Island. Its main campus is in the city’s College Hill neighborhood. It is a private Ivy League research university.

Q2: Were there any arrests in the Brown University shooting?

As of Saturday evening, no suspect was in police custody. One person was temporarily detained but was later released. The investigation by local and federal authorities remains active.

Q3: How many people were hurt in the incident?

Reports confirm at least two people were killed. Multiple other individuals were shot and injured. The exact number of wounded has not been finalized by officials.

Q4: What was happening on campus at the time of the shooting?

The shooting occurred during final exam period. The specific incident took place in an engineering building where exams were underway. This increased the number of potential witnesses and victims present.

Q5: Which authorities are investigating the shooting?

The Providence Police Department is leading the initial response. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is also on the scene. Other federal officials are assisting in the investigation.

Q6: Has the university commented on the shooting?

Yes. Brown University issued an active shooter alert via its website. University Provost Frank Doyle confirmed details of the attack. The school is coordinating with law enforcement and providing support services.