In a recent development concerning the tragic shooting at Brown University, Providence Police announced that a person of interest previously detained has now been released. This decision was communicated during a Sunday night news briefing.
“We will soon release the individual who was detained earlier today,” stated Providence Mayor Brett Smiley during the conference.
Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha clarified the situation further, saying, “It’s fair to conclude that there is no reason to consider him a person of interest, which is why he is being released.”
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley addressed the media following the shooting incident on Brown University’s campus that resulted in two fatalities and at least eight injuries on December 13, 2025, in Providence, Rhode Island. (Libby O’Neill/Getty Images)
In a social media update, the Providence Police Department confirmed, “Tonight, we announced the release of the person of interest. The investigation remains thoroughly active and collaborative among all agencies. Since the initial 911 call, there have been no specific threats reported to our community.”
The violent episode at the university on Saturday resulted in two deaths and left nine others injured, marking a sorrowful day for the community.
Police officers remain on the scene on Brown University’s campus Dec. 13, 2025, in Providence, Rhode Island. (Libby O’Neill/Getty Images)
“As Providence police continue to lead this investigation, they have informed Brown that they are continuing their search efforts, which includes ongoing coordination with multiple agencies,” the university stated. “There continues to be a heightened amount of local, state and federal police activity in the area as law enforcement continues to investigate and patrol with increased vigilance. The Department of Public Safety has more than doubled its staffing.”
A Providence Police officer takes down crime scene tape across the street from Barus & Holley School at Brown University, the day after two people were killed and nine people were injured by a gunman on Dec. 14, 2025. (Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
“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,” the school added.
