Law enforcement authorities have apprehended 24-year-old Wisconsin resident Benjamin Erickson as the primary suspect in Saturday’s deadly shooting at Brown University. The arrest occurred at a hotel approximately 32 kilometers from the Ivy League campus, where Erickson was found in possession of two firearms.
The tragic incident resulted in two confirmed fatalities and nine individuals sustaining injuries, all presumed to be students attending the university. Official identification of victims remains pending proper notification of family members.
Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez confirmed ongoing investigative efforts, stating, “We’re actively collecting evidence and seizing relevant items while conducting necessary searches at multiple locations.” The shooting occurred around 4 pm Saturday in the Barus and Holley building, which contains engineering and physics department facilities. According to law enforcement sources, the assailant discharged over 40 rounds from a 9mm handgun within a classroom setting.
The university administration has canceled all remaining academic activities for the semester, including final examinations and project submissions, as the community grapples with the tragedy. On Sunday evening, city officials and residents transformed a scheduled holiday celebration into a vigil honoring the victims.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley addressed the gathering, noting the symbolic significance of coming together during the Hanukkah season to “shine a little bit of light” in response to darkness. Federal authorities, including the FBI, provided critical assistance in locating and apprehending the suspect. FBI Director Kash Patel acknowledged the collaborative effort while requesting continued prayers for affected individuals and families.
Investigators have not yet established Erickson’s connection to the university or determined a potential motive for the attack. The case continues to develop as law enforcement pursues multiple investigative avenues.