PROVIDENCE, R.I. — – Law enforcement and university officials responded Saturday afternoon to reports of a possible active threat in the vicinity of Brown University facilities in Providence, Rhode Island. The situation prompted a series of emergency notifications to students, faculty, and staff as authorities worked to assess and secure the area.
According to alerts distributed by university officials, reports were received indicating a potential shooter near academic buildings associated with the university’s engineering programs. The initial message advised members of the campus community to take precautions while police investigated the situation.
Shortly afterward, an additional alert reiterated that a serious safety concern had been reported in the same area. Early messaging suggested that a person might have been detained, but officials later corrected that information, clarifying that no suspect had been taken into custody at that time. University leaders emphasized that the situation was still unfolding and urged individuals to remain cautious.
As the response continued, school officials instructed people to avoid the affected area near the engineering complex and to remain in safe locations until further notice. The university made clear that information was being updated in real time as police gathered more details.
Brown University Police and Providence Police were dispatched to the scene and conducted an active search to determine whether any suspects were present and whether there was an ongoing threat. Officers worked together to secure nearby buildings and ensure the safety of those in the area. Emergency medical personnel were also sent as a precaution.
At the time of the alerts, officials did not confirm whether anyone had been injured. No additional details were immediately available regarding what prompted the initial reports, and authorities did not provide information about a weapon or the identity of any individuals involved.
University administrators stressed that the alerts were issued out of an abundance of caution, with the priority being the safety of students, staff, and visitors. They encouraged the campus community to rely only on official updates and to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary panic or confusion.
The incident caused heightened concern across campus, particularly as students and staff adjusted their plans while waiting for further guidance. Officials noted that emergency protocols were followed to ensure rapid communication and coordination with local law enforcement.
Authorities emphasized that investigations of this nature can take time and asked for patience as officers worked to confirm facts and eliminate potential risks. The university stated it would continue to share updates through official channels as more information became available.
By late afternoon, police activity remained ongoing in the area, and access restrictions were still in place around certain buildings. Officials reiterated that anyone not already in the immediate vicinity should continue to stay away from the affected location until authorities declared it safe.
University leaders also reminded the community that safety alerts are designed to provide early warnings and may change as situations develop. They encouraged students and staff to remain alert, follow verified guidance, and prioritize personal safety.
As of the most recent update, the investigation remained active, and officials had not released further details. Law enforcement agencies continued working to determine the nature of the reported threat and to ensure the campus and surrounding neighborhood were secure.
Additional information is expected to be shared once authorities are able to confirm the facts surrounding the incident.
