Mon Dec 15 07:07:08 UTC 2025: Brown University Shooting Investigation Takes Sharp Turn: Person of Interest Released
Providence, RI – December 15, 2025 – The investigation into a deadly shooting at Brown University, which left two students dead and nine injured, has taken an unexpected turn. Authorities have released the person of interest who was detained in connection with the attack, citing a shift in the direction of the investigation.
The announcement came late Sunday night, just hours after officials had declared the 24-year-old from Wisconsin was in custody. The release has sparked fresh anxiety on campus and in the surrounding community, as the shooter remains at large.
The shooting occurred Saturday afternoon in the Barus & Holley building, the engineering and physics department, during final exams. The incident triggered a campus-wide lockdown and a massive search involving hundreds of officers. Students were forced to shelter in place, many barricading themselves in rooms.
According to a law enforcement official, the gunman opened fire with a 9mm handgun, firing over 40 rounds. Two handguns and loaded magazines were recovered when the person of interest was taken into custody at a Hampton Inn in Coventry, Rhode Island.
Brown University President Christina Paxson expressed gratitude for the support students were providing each other and announced the cancellation of all remaining classes and exams for the semester.
Mayor Brett Smiley praised the resilience of the survivors and highlighted the usefulness of active shooter drills. A vigil was held Sunday evening to honor the victims.
Investigators are now working to determine how the shooter gained access to the building, as outer doors were unlocked but exam rooms required badge access.
One of the injured students was identified as Kendall Turner, a recent graduate of Durham Academy in North Carolina.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
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