Law Enforcement Cautions Patience as Brown University Manhunt Continues
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — As authorities intensify their search for the suspect involved in the deadly shooting at Brown University, a retired FBI supervisory special agent has emphasized the challenges law enforcement faces in such high-stakes situations. The manhunt, which follows a tragic incident that left at least two dead and nine critically injured, is ongoing as officers meticulously clear buildings across the campus.
Jason Pack, who served 21 years with the FBI, explained that early details in active investigations often shift as new information emerges. “Facts in situations like this often change, sometimes rapidly,” Pack said. “Early information comes from multiple sources, often under stress, and law enforcement has to verify each piece before acting on it or releasing it publicly.”
The suspect, described as a male dressed in black, was last seen leaving the Barus & Holley engineering building around 4 p.m. on Saturday. Multiple agencies, including the FBI Boston Field Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and local law enforcement, are collaborating in the investigation and search.
Pack highlighted the painstaking nature of clearing the university’s buildings, a process that requires officers to treat every hallway, stairwell, classroom, and office as a potential threat until it is thoroughly cleared. “This is slow, deliberate and dangerous work,” he said. “Officers are moving methodically, often in low light, with limited information and with the understanding that someone inside those buildings may be frightened, hiding or unable to communicate clearly.”
The complexity of the operation is compounded by the need to balance urgency with caution. “That requires discipline and restraint, not speed,” Pack noted, warning that the search could extend into Sunday. “Law enforcement is balancing two responsibilities at once — moving fast enough to protect lives but slow enough to make sure nothing is missed.”
Residents of Providence have been advised to stay indoors as police conduct their sweeping search. Meanwhile, students remain under a shelter-in-place order as authorities work to ensure campus safety. The Brown University community has been deeply affected by the incident, with officials and first responders praised for their efforts amid a chaotic and dangerous situation.
The incident has drawn national attention, with public figures urging calm and prayers for victims. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has also been monitoring the situation to assist local agencies as needed.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials urge the public to remain patient and cautious about early reports, which may evolve as more verified information becomes available. The goal remains clear: to ensure every space is safe, every person accounted for, and to bring the suspect into custody to prevent further harm.
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