Investigation into Brown University Shooting Continues
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — As the search for the shooter at Brown University enters its fifth day, authorities are still calling on the public for help. They’re asking anyone who might have security or phone footage from the week leading up to the attack to share it. Investigators believe the shooter may have scouted the area beforehand.
The police have released videos of a suspect seen near the campus just before and after the shooting. Unfortunately, this individual was always masked or turned away, making it hard to identify them.
Col. Oscar Perez, the police chief, stated that this is one of the most intense investigations in the country at the moment. They have collected significant evidence from the crime scene, and witness accounts are aligning with the videos. However, the older parts of the engineering building, where the attack occurred, lack sufficient surveillance.
Despite Brown University having over 1,200 cameras, the incident in a first-floor classroom went largely unseen. Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha mentioned that the shooter likely entered and exited through a door facing a residential area.
This lack of video evidence has led to criticism. Former President Donald Trump took to social media, questioning Brown’s preparedness and the number of security cameras available on campus.
Current Status of the Investigation
Authorities describe the suspect as around 5 feet 8 inches tall and stocky. But there are still many unanswered questions. The motive for the attack remains unclear, and investigators haven’t ruled out any possibilities. They have been diligently canvassing nearby neighborhoods and have already received hundreds of tips.
Providence police have also released a photo of another person who was seen near the area during the incident. They are asking the public for help in identifying this individual for questioning.
The timing of the shooting, just before winter break, complicates matters. With classes canceled, many students have already left campus, making it harder for investigators to reach potential witnesses.
Campus Security Under Fire
The shooting has sparked debates about campus security protocols. Brown University has two main security systems: one for emergencies that sends alerts to thousands, and another that consists of sirens. In this case, the sirens were not activated, a decision that has been defended by the university’s administration.
Schools in Providence are also feeling the impact. Additional police presence has been noted around local schools to assure parents of their children’s safety. Since the shooting, over 760 new residents have signed up for the city’s text alert system, increasing the total to more than 2,300.
The university has urged people to avoid casting suspicion on individuals online, as this has led to harmful rumors, including one instance of doxing a student. They emphasized that misinformation can be dangerous.
Remembering the Victims
A recent gathering of about 200 people was held on campus to honor the victims. Ella Cook, a 19-year-old sophomore, and MukhammadAziz Umurzokov, an 18-year-old freshman, both lost their lives in the attack. Ella was active with her church and involved in student government, while Mukhammad hoped to attend medical school one day.
As investigations progress, the community is left on edge but remains hopeful for answers. The search continues, and authorities are committed to ensuring safety across the campus and the wider Providence area.
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