Manhunt for Brown University Shooter Continues into Third Day as Person of Interest Released

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Law enforcement authorities in Rhode Island resumed an intensive manhunt on Monday for the gunman responsible for a deadly mass shooting at Brown University, after releasing a previously detained person of interest due to lack of evidence.

The attack occurred on Saturday afternoon in the Barus & Holley building, home to the university's engineering and physics departments, where students were gathered for study sessions and final exams. A lone gunman entered a classroom, yelled something incomprehensible, and opened fire, killing two students and injuring nine others. All victims were students, according to university president Christina Paxson.

The deceased have been identified as Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov. As of Monday, one injured victim remained in critical condition, while others were reported stable or discharged.

Providence police released surveillance footage showing the suspect—a man believed to be in his 30s, dressed entirely in black—fleeing the scene on foot along Hope Street and turning onto Waterman Street. His face is not visible in the videos, prompting authorities to urge the public to identify him by his clothing or gait. No motive has been disclosed, and officials have stated there is no known ongoing threat to the community.

In a significant setback Sunday night, Rhode Island officials announced the release of a person of interest detained earlier that day at a hotel in Coventry, about 28 miles south of Providence. The individual, described in reports as a mid-20s man from Wisconsin, was initially held based on leads including geolocation data from the FBI. However, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha cited "scientific evidence" that cleared the detainee, stating the proof "now points in a different direction."

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley acknowledged heightened anxiety in the community following the release but emphasized that the investigation remains "fully active" with multi-agency cooperation, including the FBI and ATF. On Monday, officers went door-to-door in Providence neighborhoods and businesses seeking additional surveillance footage to track the suspect's movements.

The shooting, Rhode Island's first major mass casualty event in decades, prompted a campus lockdown, shelter-in-place orders, and widespread disruptions. Brown University canceled all remaining fall semester classes, exams, and projects. Nearby schools increased security, and a candlelight vigil drew hundreds to Lippitt Memorial Park on Sunday night.

FBI Director Kash Patel vowed a "24/7 campaign until justice is served," while Governor Daniel McKee called the incident "unthinkable." Authorities continue to appeal for public tips, including any video or information that could aid in identifying the at-large shooter.

17GEN4.com