Manhunt Resumes as Police Shift Focus in Brown University Shooting Investigation
A stunning turn of events has unfolded in the investigation of the shooting at Brown University. Law enforcement officials have released Benjamin Erickson, previously identified as a person of interest. The shooting, which occurred on a Tuesday night in Providence, Rhode Island, resulted in two male students being wounded, with one in critical condition.
The police have confirmed that new evidence has altered the trajectory of their investigation. They describe the ongoing search for the actual shooter as being “full-steam ahead.” The sudden release of Erickson sparked a wave of criticism on social media, with many expressing frustration over the apparent mishandling of the case. A post that gained significant traction bluntly stated, “This is a total MESS.”
The incident took place around 10:17 p.m. outside the Andrews House dormitory. Witnesses recalled hearing multiple gunshots, which prompted a rapid response from campus security and police. One student was severely injured, while the second sustained a gunshot wound to the leg but is expected to recover.
Initially, campus security footage and witness accounts pointed investigators toward Erickson, a former student who had recently returned for an alumni event. However, inconsistencies in witness statements and preliminary forensic findings led officers to release him without charges.
“We followed the evidence where it led us,” said Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez at a press briefing. He added that the evidence now indicates Erickson’s non-involvement. Multiple sources informed that surveillance footage reviewed later showed another individual fleeing the scene, dressed differently from Erickson.
In response to the shooting, Brown University has renewed its collaboration with law enforcement, enhancing security measures on campus and offering access to security systems and student logs. Interim President Richard Locke acknowledged the distress within the campus community and pledged to utilize additional resources for the investigation.
“Our campus community is understandably shaken,” Locke stated. This emphasizes the growing concern among students as they grapple with the impact of violence on their campus.
Legal experts weighed in on the implications of publicly naming and then releasing a person of interest. Jennifer Ballard, a professor of criminal law, expressed that such actions can damage reputations and create perceptions that may linger, even if the individual is ultimately cleared of wrongdoing.
Moreover, this shooting is not an isolated incident but rather part of a troubling trend. The attack marks the second high-profile shooting on a college campus in New England this academic year, raising questions about safety in educational institutions. Providence has experienced a notable rise in violent crime, including a 12% increase in gun-related incidents over the past year, raising alarms among residents and officials alike.
Current Brown students have voiced their concerns. Emily Hernandez, a political science major, reflected the sentiment of uncertainty, stating, “Now it’s back to square one. They let him go, and nobody knows who did this.” This underscores a feeling of vulnerability among students as they question the effectiveness of the measures in place to keep them safe.
Despite the release of Erickson, police confirmed he remains cooperative. Chief Perez mentioned that GPS data and university logs support Erickson’s alibi, indicating he was in a different part of the campus during the shooting.
As pressure mounts on the university and local authorities to clarify the situation, Governor Daniel McKee has sought updates from the Rhode Island State Police concerning campus safety. Chief Perez refrained from speculating on the motives or affiliations of the shooter, stating that the investigation is still ongoing and complexities remain.
The FBI is contributing forensic support as investigators analyze ballistic and digital evidence. Preliminary indications suggest a Glock 9mm was used in the attack, but no weapon has been recovered yet. Police are also delving into recent social media threats made against Brown students, though none have been definitively connected to the shooting incident.
Increased security measures are now in place on campus. Brown officials are providing counseling sessions and have opted for online midterm exams to reduce on-campus activities during this tense period.
As discussions about campus safety continue, state lawmakers are considering enhancements to Rhode Island’s 2019 “red flag” law. While this legislation has allowed for temporary firearm seizures, critics feel it doesn’t sufficiently address the unique challenges posed by threats on college campuses.
Lieutenant Governor Sabina Matos highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach, stating, “We must treat campus shootings not as isolated events, but as part of a growing and dangerous national trend.”
The investigation, now in a critical phase, remains open as police seek assistance from the public. They are calling on anyone who may have information related to the shooting or noticed unusual activities near Andrews House that night to come forward.
"*" indicates required fields
