Brown University Places Police Chief on Leave Following Fatal Shooting
Brown University has placed its police chief on leave, following a mass shooting that resulted in two fatalities and nine injuries. This decision, announced by President Christina Paxson, follows a standard review of campus safety protocols after the incident.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The tragic event occurred on December 13, when a suspect opened fire inside a building designated for engineering and physics programs. During the attack, at least 44 rounds were fired.
Victims of the Attack
- Ella Cook: A 19-year-old second-year student from Alabama.
- Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov: An 18-year-old first-year student of Uzbek-American descent.
Investigation and Suspect Identification
Authorities have identified the shooter as Claudio Neves Valente, a 48-year-old Portuguese national. Valente had previously studied at Brown University. He was discovered dead in a storage facility in Salem, New Hampshire, six days after the shooting.
It is believed that Valente may have also been responsible for the death of a Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) professor, just two days after the Brown University incident. No motive has been disclosed for either shooting.
Response and Safety Reviews
In the aftermath of the attack, concerns regarding the police response have surfaced, highlighting delays in identifying and capturing the suspect. President Paxson commended the bravery of campus officers who responded during the crisis but acknowledged the growing anxiety among students.
The university plans to conduct a thorough review of its safety measures and the response to the shooting. This review will be overseen by the institution’s highest governing body. Additionally, the US Department of Education has announced it will evaluate Brown University’s response to the incident.
Security Measures at Brown University
In response to the shooting, President Paxson noted that Brown University has installed approximately 1,200 security cameras on campus. This statement followed criticism from President Donald Trump regarding the adequacy of security measures in place.
Conclusion
As investigations continue and safety protocols are reevaluated, the community at Brown University faces a challenging time in the wake of this tragic event.
