Providence Police Release Bodycam Footage and Audio from Brown University Shooting Response
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Providence Police Department on Monday unveiled redacted body camera footage and audio recordings from the harrowing December 13 mass shooting at Brown University, shedding light on the frantic efforts by law enforcement to locate the suspect who slipped through an extensive dragnet. The attack, which tragically claimed the lives of two students and injured nine others, prompted an immediate and intense response from campus and city police.
The released materials include bodycam video capturing officers conducting a meticulous floor-by-floor search of the campus building where the shooting occurred, as well as radio traffic and emergency call recordings from the chaotic moments after the first reports of gunfire. According to the Providence Police, portions of the footage and audio were redacted to protect the privacy of victims and witnesses, remove graphic content, and comply with the state’s Access to Public Records Act.
Shortly after 4 p.m. on December 13, Brown University Police began communicating with Providence emergency dispatch as reports of the shooting emerged. By 4:11 p.m., dispatchers relayed a suspect description: an individual dressed entirely in black with a ski mask, though the direction of travel remained unknown. The body camera footage shows officers coordinating a rapid response, with the officer in charge formally advising dispatch at 4:16 p.m. that the situation was an active shooter incident.
Despite a comprehensive dragnet, the suspect managed to evade capture, prompting a citywide search. The footage and audio reveal the urgency and complexity of the operation, as officers swept the campus and surrounding areas, coordinating with multiple agencies to secure the scene and assist victims.
Experts have since described Brown University as a “soft target” for the shooter, highlighting challenges in preventing such attacks on college campuses. The incident has spurred renewed discussions on campus safety protocols and emergency preparedness nationwide. The Providence Police Department’s transparency in releasing these materials aims to provide the public with a clearer understanding of the law enforcement response and ongoing investigation.
For more on law enforcement procedures during active shooter events, see resources from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Providence Police Department continues to work closely with the Brown University Campus Safety office and local agencies to enhance security measures.
Community members seeking support and information can refer to the Massachusetts Office for Victims of Crime, which provides resources for those affected by violent incidents. Additionally, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency offers guidance on preparedness and response strategies for active shooter situations.
The Providence Police Department urges anyone with information related to the shooting or the suspect’s whereabouts to contact their tip line. As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of Brown University’s students, faculty, and the broader community.
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