A shocking day unfolded at Brown University when gunfire erupted at the campus’ engineering building, leaving the community reeling.
Students, preparing for end-of-semester exams, were suddenly forced to confront a nightmare scenario as shots rang out in the afternoon.
Suspect Identified and Taken into Custody
Authorities have now identified the person of interest as 24-year-old Benjamin Erickson.
Originally from Wisconsin, Erickson was apprehended roughly 15 miles from the Providence campus.
Reports indicate he drove approximately 17 hours from his home state to Rhode Island before the attack.
Arrest Details and Background
Erickson was arrested early Sunday at 3 a.m. at the Hampton Inn in Coventry.
Law enforcement sources told CNN he is not a Rhode Island resident or a student at Brown.
Officials also noted that Erickson has military ties.
While he has been taken into custody, he has not yet been formally charged or named as the primary suspect.
Authorities are reportedly reviewing Erickson’s mental health history, which may be extensive, according to NBC.
The arrest followed an intense manhunt for a male suspect reportedly “dressed all in black” after the shooting.
The Shooting Unfolds
The tragic attack left two students dead and nine others injured.
Law enforcement confirmed that the shooter fired more than 40 rounds from a handgun before fleeing through an exit.
Police later discovered two firearms in the hotel room where Erickson was staying: a small Glock handgun and a revolver.
One gun was equipped with a laser, and authorities found two loaded 30-round magazines on site.
Campus Lockdown and Law Enforcement Response
The incident triggered a massive law enforcement response.
FBI and ATF agents were dispatched to the campus, and students were forced to shelter in place overnight.
The lockdown remained in effect until 7 a.m. Sunday morning.
Mayor’s Update and Community Reassurance
Providence Mayor Smiley addressed the city at a 7 a.m. press conference, emphasizing the ongoing police presence to reassure residents.
He confirmed the fatalities and injuries while providing updates on those hospitalized: seven are stable, one is in critical but stable condition, and one has been discharged.
Mayor Smiley acknowledged the emotional toll on the city and the university community, stating, “This is an incredibly upsetting and emotional time, for Providence, for Brown, for all of us.
This is not something we should have to train for.”
He also highlighted the importance of community tips in aiding Erickson’s capture, reminding citizens that local vigilance played a critical role in resolving the manhunt.
Moving Forward
As investigators continue to examine Erickson’s motives and mental health background, Providence and Brown University are beginning the long process of healing.
Enhanced security measures remain in place, and authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
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