Police in Providence have released new surveillance footage in the urgent hunt for the suspect behind a deadly shooting at Brown University, which left two people dead and nine others injured.
Video Shows Suspect 'Casing' Campus Area
The newly released video, captured on the East Side of Providence on Saturday afternoon, shows a masked individual walking in a residential neighbourhood near the university campus about two hours before the attack. The person of interest is seen wearing a black beanie, a green jacket, and black gloves.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Providence Police Chief Oscar L Perez stated the footage appears to show the individual "casing the area". "That's what criminals do prior to committing a crime," Perez told reporters.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The manhunt has continued since the shooting on Saturday, which occurred during final exams. Police have received hundreds of tips, with close to 200 considered actionable leads. Chief Perez confirmed the investigation is very much active, contrary to earlier claims by FBI director Kash Patel that the case was solved. A person detained on Sunday was subsequently released.
Authorities are now making a specific appeal for further video evidence. They are asking residents near Waterman Avenue and Hope Street to provide any camera footage—including from vehicles like Teslas—from "at least a week" before the incident.
Officials Urge Patience and Community Confidence
Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha expressed confidence in the investigation, stating it was "going really well". He urged the public to trust in the experienced law enforcement and prosecution teams working on the case.
"They're smart, they're professional and they're getting the resources... to get this job done and I'm confident they are going to be able to do that. Just need a little bit of patience," Neronha said.
Brown University President Christina Paxson also addressed the community, emphasising the institution's commitment to safety and countering suggestions of responsibility. "The shooter is responsible," she stated, acknowledging the natural anxiety following the tragedy.
The FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the shooter.
