Suspicious Activity Before a Tragedy at Brown University
In early November, campus worker Lisi noticed a man who seemed out of place around the Brown University engineering building. Over the following weeks, Lisi observed this man peering into classrooms and lurking in the hallways. Concerned, he reported it to campus security multiple times.
In December, that same month, a custodian informed Event Staffing Services about the suspicious individual. However, the contractor made it clear that they don’t investigate such reports—they only handle event management. “Whenever there’s an event, we’re there for ID checks and headcounts,” said David Madonna, ESS president.
Days later, tragedy struck. The suspect, identified as Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, allegedly opened fire in Room 166, leaving two students dead and several others injured. Police subsequently linked him to other violent incidents, including the murder of an MIT professor.
As Lisi learned of the shooting, he immediately recalled the man he had seen in the building. “I recognized him by his distinct walk,” he said. This realization came after he had already alerted others about the man’s behavior.
Despite raising concerns, Lisi felt powerless. “I just wish there was something I could have done,” he lamented. His fears resonate within a broader conversation: What can universities do to bolster security?
According to a recent survey by the National Center for Education Statistics, more than 10% of college students reported being victims of a crime on campus. As a response to this shooting, Brown’s president announced immediate safety measures, including the formation of a response team and an external review of campus security protocols.
In the wake of these events, many members of the community are calling for better safety measures and clearer roles for those responsible for security on campus. Social media has also played a crucial role in sharing information and discussing safety concerns, with many voices advocating for a more cohesive security strategy.
The alleged assailant was eventually found dead, raising questions about how we deal with behavior that raises red flags. Lisi’s experience highlights the importance of listening to intuition about safety. Community members like him, who actively care about their environment, can make a difference.
In the end, a tragedy can prompt a re-evaluation of how we safeguard our communities. Understanding the signs and fostering better communication can help prevent future incidents. It’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels responsible for each other’s safety.
