In a troubling development, the gunman responsible for shooting two students at the prestigious Brown University remains unidentified and at large, even after an intensive 30-hour manhunt by law enforcement agencies. The investigation, which has gripped the nation, is facing significant challenges due to a critical lack of visual evidence and a series of public missteps that have complicated the search.
Critical Lack of Evidence Hinders Manhunt
Authorities have confirmed a major setback: there is no CCTV footage showing the shooter's face. The only video released to the public shows a man of medium build from behind, which has provided no crucial leads. This gap exists because the shooting occurred in a very old building on campus that was not equipped with comprehensive surveillance, despite reports indicating that the entire Brown University campus is covered by over 800 cameras.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley addressed the media, stating that the released video is the "clearest picture we have of the individual we believe to be responsible." However, he sought to reassure the public, adding, "But that doesn't mean that there isn't other evidence." He emphasized that a significant amount of physical evidence has been collected from the crime scene over the course of the nearly two-day investigation.
A Series of Public Missteps Complicate the Case
The investigation has been marred by confusion from the highest levels. Former President Donald Trump triggered the first major misstep by prematurely announcing on social media that the accused was in custody. He later corrected his statement, but the damage was done, spreading misinformation. Approximately 13 hours after Trump's post, law enforcement confirmed they were questioning a person of interest.
This individual, from Wisconsin, was taken into custody based on tips but was later released after investigators confirmed he was not involved in the shooting. In another unfortunate episode, the name of this innocent person, Benjamin Erickson, was leaked to the media. This led to him being wrongly hounded on social media with vicious claims, highlighting the perils of such leaks during sensitive investigations.
Reports also indicate a tussle between the local Providence administration and the FBI, with local law enforcement hinting that the federal agency was handling the questioning of the person of interest.
Where the Investigation Stands Now
As the clock ticks past the 30-hour mark, the pressure on investigators is immense. The core challenges are clear:
- No identifiable visual evidence of the shooter due to lack of cameras in the specific building.
- The release of an innocent person whose name was publicly leaked, causing him harm.
- Public confusion sown by high-profile, inaccurate statements.
- The ongoing, large-scale manhunt across Providence and potentially beyond.
The case underscores serious questions about security in older campus buildings and the protocols for managing information flow during fast-moving, high-stakes criminal investigations. The entire Brown University community and the city of Providence await a breakthrough, hoping the evidence collected behind the scenes will soon lead to an arrest.
