Authorities are continuing the manhunt for the gunman in the deadly shooting at Brown University, while investigators disclosed that a previously detained person of interest has been released and the case has shifted direction. Two students were killed and nine others wounded Saturday afternoon when gunfire erupted inside an engineering building during final exams.
On Monday afternoon, Providence Police shared new videos and photos on social media of a new person of interest in the shooting, which show a man dressed in black on Hope and Manning streets and on Benevolent Street. Police state that the images were captured about two hours before Saturday’s shooting: “we are requesting the public’s assistance in identifying a person of interest in Saturday’s incident at Brown University. Please share these images and direct all tips to 401-272-3121 or at the link HERE. “
Previously released surveillance video shows a suspect dressed in black calmly walking away from the scene. The individual’s face is not visible, and officials have not determined whether the suspect is affiliated with the university. Investigators are also still working to determine how the shooter accessed the first-floor classroom. While the building’s exterior doors were unlocked, rooms used for final exams required badge access.
Providence Police Chief, Col. Oscar L. Perez Jr., said at the news conference that “It’s all hands on deck,” adding that state police and federal agencies are also assisting in the search. Authorities asked people in Rhode Island and beyond to review the new videos and photos and to call police if they have any information.
The FBI announced that they were “offering a reward of up to $50,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the individual. Anyone with information please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or the Providence Police Department at 401-272-3121.” The FBI also released a description of the suspect, saying the person is “approximately 5’8” with a stocky build.”
Meanwhile, the person of interest that had been taken into custody early Sunday was released later that night after investigators determined there was no legal basis to continue holding them. Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha said evidence that had initially drawn attention to the individual “now points in a different direction … So what that means is that this person of interest needs to be released.”
Brown University posted on X: “Providence police announced late on Sunday night that they have released the individual they had detained in connection with the investigation into the shooting on the Brown campus on Saturday, Dec. 14, which claimed the lives of two Brown students and injured nine others. The Rhode Island Attorney General stated definitively in a news media event hosted by the City of Providence that “there is no basis” to consider the released individual a person of interest. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate, and local police have advised they do not believe there is any immediate threat to Brown or the local community. We continue to make every effort to ensure the safety and security of the campus. We are also advising every member of the Brown community to be vigilant in their own activities on campus”
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley shared that seven hospitalized victims remain in stable condition, one is in critical condition, and another with minor injuries has been released. He said he has spoken directly with several victims, and added that “this is an incredibly upsetting and emotional time for Providence and Brown — for all of us.”
Brown has canceled all remaining classes and exams for the semester, allowing students to leave campus if they choose. Support services remain available for those who stay, Provost Francis Doyle said: “At this time, it is essential that we focus our efforts on providing care and support to the members of our community as we grapple with the sorrow, fear and anxiety that is impacting all of us right now.”
The two students killed were identified as Muhammad Aziz Umurzakov of Uzbekistan and Ella Cook of Birmingham, Alabama. The Uzbekistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, “The loss of innocent lives as a result of this tragedy is a heavy loss for all of us.” Cook was vice president of Brown’s chapter of College Republicans, with her church in Alabama describing her as an “incredible light.” Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., said on X: “I am heartbroken to hear that Mountain Brook’s Ella Cook was among those killed over the weekend at Brown University. Our hearts and our prayers are with the Cook family and everyone impacted by this senseless killing.” In addition, Rep. Katie Britt, R-Ala., said on X: “There are no words that can ease the pain Ella’s family and friends are enduring right now. … Our hearts are breaking for the Cook family.”
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