A tragic shooting incident unfolded on Saturday at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, resulting in the loss of two lives and critically injuring at least eight others.

According to authorities, the shooting took place in a campus building during finals week, creating chaos among students who were preparing for their exams. The shooter, described as wearing black clothing, fled on foot immediately after the incident. Local police have intensified their search for the suspect amidst this alarming situation.

In response to the violence, a shelter-in-place order was issued for the university and nearby areas to ensure the safety of students and staff. Mayor Brett Smiley of Providence expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, stating: “Today is a day that the city of Providence and the state of Rhode Island prayed would never come. We have all available resources to locate and apprehend the suspect.”

Brown University is known for its diverse student body, consisting of roughly 7,300 undergraduates and over 3,000 graduate students. This incident comes as a painful reminder of the increasing concerns surrounding gun violence in American educational institutions.

This heart-wrenching event raises critical discussions about gun control and safety measures in schools, prompting many community leaders and officials to reconsider the protective frameworks in place to safeguard students.