Frustration is mounting in Providence, Rhode Island, as authorities have yet to identify a clear suspect following a deadly shooting rampage at the prestigious Brown University over the weekend. The incident, which left two people dead and nine others injured, occurred on the afternoon of Saturday, December 13, 2025.
Investigation Stalls Without Clear Suspect
During a briefing on Monday, December 15, Providence officials confirmed they had not identified any new persons of interest. A significant hurdle in the investigation has been a lack of clear security-camera footage from inside the Barus & Holley engineering building, where the shooting took place. One individual was detained but was released late Sunday without charges.
In an effort to generate leads, the Providence Police Department released three additional videos and two photographs on Monday night. The images depict the suspected shooter dressed entirely in dark clothing, including a cap and a face mask. While these offer a clearer view than earlier, more distant footage, the person's face remains obscured. Authorities also confirmed the shooter used a 9mm firearm.
Community Anxieties and Political Reactions
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley appealed for "a little bit of patience and grace" from the public as the investigation continues. He acknowledged the persistent fear and anxiety in the community and stated he has ordered increased police patrols in neighbourhoods to help residents feel safer while the shooter remains at large.
The case drew commentary from former President Donald Trump on Monday, who expressed hope that authorities would "capture this animal." He suggested the incident was primarily a "school problem" regarding security, noting that federal agencies like the FBI became involved only after the fact.
Unusual Evasion in an Age of Surveillance
The shooter's apparent ability to avoid clear video capture is notable in an era where surveillance cameras and cellphone footage often play a crucial role in solving high-profile crimes. This stands in contrast to other recent cases, including the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk earlier in the year and a Manhattan executive murder in 2024, where video evidence was quickly available.
To assist the investigation, the FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the shooter's arrest and conviction. Meanwhile, Providence police have been canvassing the area near the Ivy League campus, knocking on doors of local residences and businesses to request any private security-camera footage that may exist.
The lack of progress has raised questions about campus security measures. According to the Brown Daily Herald in 2020, the university reported having roughly 800 security cameras positioned in "high traffic areas." The ongoing manhunt and the community's call for answers underscore the challenges faced even at heavily monitored institutions.
