PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Six days into the investigation into the mass shooting at Brown University, authorities have revealed they are probing a possible tie between the incident and the killing of a Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) professor two days later.
Sources familiar with the investigation, speaking on the condition of anonymity, indicated that a person of interest has been identified and efforts to locate this individual are ongoing. The tragic shooting incident at Brown University took place on a Saturday, resulting in the deaths of two students and injuries to nine others in an engineering classroom.
Just two days later, MIT professor Nuno F.G. Loureiro was fatally shot in his home near Boston and succumbed to his injuries in the hospital on Monday night. While the FBI previously stated that there were no known links between the two cases, the ongoing investigation may reveal new findings.
Brown University Investigation Progress
As the investigation unfolds, frustration is mounting among the community in Providence over the shooter’s continued freedom. Both the state attorney general and city officials have assured the public that every effort is being made to apprehend the suspect, although clarity on the suspect's identity remains elusive.
Authorities are actively scrutinizing evidence and have requested local residents to provide any available phone or security footage that might aid in the investigation. They believe that the shooter may have been scouting the campus prior to the attack.
Surveillance footage released by investigators shows an individual who fits witnesses’ descriptions in the vicinity of the campus, yet the individual remains obscured by a mask or turned away from the camera in all captured footage.
Insights from Past Investigations
Experts have noted the challenges that law enforcement faces in targeted attacks, where perpetrators often either evade capture or take drastic measures post-incident. Retired FBI agent Katherine Schweit emphasized that timely public cooperation is crucial to resolving such cases.
Past instances, such as the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, highlight that while investigations can take time, diligent effort and community involvement often lead to breakthroughs.
As the investigation continues, the motives behind the Brown University's attack remain unclear, with evidence not suggesting a specific target. Local authorities are committed to ensuring the safety of residents and are working to restore a sense of security in their communities.
