Providence Community Reels from Brown University Shooting as Police Seek Public Help

Thu Dec 18 2025 19:07:47 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In the aftermath of a tragic shooting at Brown University that left two students dead and nine others injured, police are urging the public to provide any footage that may help identify the suspect.

Authorities in Providence, Rhode Island, are investigating a shooting that occurred at Brown University, resulting in two fatalities and nine injuries. A lack of clear surveillance footage has left both officials and the community frustrated, as police continue to seek public assistance in identifying the gunman. Community members came together to mourn during a church service, reflecting on a heightened sense of fear and demands for improved campus security. The investigation is ongoing, with a focus on the motives behind the violence.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Authorities have asked the public for any footage they might have of the gunman who fatally shot two students and wounded nine others at Brown University. As investigators released a new video timeline and a clearer image of a possible suspect, the search for his identity continues without clear leads.

Investigators reported that a masked figure captured in surveillance cameras has made the search challenging. Described as stocky and about 5 feet, 8 inches tall, the individual was seen walking near the university shortly after the shooting incident.

Brown University President Christina Paxson noted that while there are 1,200 security cameras on campus, none captured the shooter in action within the engineering building. Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez emphasized the urgency in collecting potential footage from the public, urging them to review their camera systems.

Community Responses

This tragic event has left the community in a state of sorrow and fear. A somber church service held on campus drew around 200 attendees, including Brown alumnus Chris Kremer, who expressed the need for communal support during such a difficult time.

Calls for better safety measures have intensified, with questions arising about the security protocols at Brown University. In a campus security review, it has been noted that the emergency alert system was activated during the incident, but other measures, such as alerts via sirens, were not deemed appropriate given the immediate danger.

Campus Security Reassessed

In the wake of the shooting, neighborhood schools have ramped up security to help reassure concerned parents. Superintendent Javier Montañez informed the community about enhanced constraints to ensure students' safety.

Some residents, like Zoe Kass—a senior who witnessed the gunfire—criticized the focus on physical security measures, stating that the real issue lies in discussions around gun violence and policies.

Victims Remembered

As details emerge about the victims, the community reflects on their lives. Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov were both tragically killed, with emotional tributes surfacing from fellow students and family members. The victims, part of a group studying for finals at the time, are deeply mourned by their peers.

Authorities continue to seek answers and the motives behind the attack, as residents of Providence rally together in support of those affected by this senseless act of violence.