Before kickoff at Gillette Stadium on a freezing Sunday afternoon, the New England Patriots paused to honor the victims of the tragic mass shooting at Brown University.
Fans were asked to observe a moment of silence, bringing a quiet, somber start to the NFL clash against the Buffalo Bills.
The gesture came amid deep shock in Rhode Island and across the sports world.
Suspect Taken Into Custody in Rhode Island Shooting
Authorities confirmed that a person of interest—a man in his 20s—was arrested early Sunday morning at the Hampton Inn in Coventry, just hours after the shooting at the Ivy League campus.
The shooter, who police say was armed with a handgun, fired more than 40 rounds, leaving two dead and multiple others injured.
Officials also reported that the gun had a “unique characteristic” and another firearm was recovered from the suspect, along with two loaded 30-round magazines, according to sources who spoke anonymously to the Associated Press.
Patriots Express Sympathy to Their Neighbors
On Saturday, the Patriots shared a heartfelt message addressing Rhode Island residents and the Brown University community.
“The New England Patriots are heartbroken by the horrific events at Brown University,” the team wrote.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to those affected and their families, and we remain grateful to the first responders and law enforcement who acted swiftly to protect the students, faculty, staff, and the community.
We stand with Brown University and our neighbors in Rhode Island during this difficult time.”
Bills Players Stay on High Alert
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills were just two miles from the scene and remained confined to their hotel as authorities investigated.
The first 911 call reporting shots at Brown’s engineering building came at 4:05pm Saturday, during the stressful end-of-semester exam period for students.
Late Saturday night, police released a brief video of the suspect walking along Waterman Street.
Wearing all black, the man was captured on camera turning a corner shortly before being taken into custody amid heavy police activity around 3am Sunday.
Students Shelter in Place Overnight
Students at the Providence campus were ordered to shelter in place for hours, an experience that left many terrified.
The lockdown was lifted around 7am Sunday morning, giving the community a measure of relief as authorities maintained a strong police presence in the city.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley addressed the media, encouraging residents to take “a small sigh of relief” after the arrest.
He also confirmed that enhanced patrols would remain in the area for safety and reassurance while the investigation continues.
Local Businesses and Leaders Respond
The tragedy has rippled throughout the city.
Many local businesses announced closures, reflecting the shock and grief that have gripped the community.
Brown University President Christina Paxson spoke at a press conference, acknowledging the pain while emphasizing resilience.
“Everybody’s reeling, and we have a lot of recovery ahead of us,” she said.
“Our community’s strong and we’ll get through it, but it’s devastating.”
What’s Next
Investigators continue to piece together the events of Saturday evening.
For now, Providence braces for a difficult period of mourning and recovery, while local law enforcement and the university work to ensure the safety and support of students, staff, and families.
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