Brown University Shooting Update: Man Released, Suspect Still At Large
Person of Interest in Brown University Shooting Released
Authorities have confirmed that a 24-year-old man briefly detained in connection with the deadly Brown University shooting has been released, as investigators acknowledged they had initially followed the wrong lead and the actual suspect remains at large.
Benjamin Erickson was taken into custody early Sunday morning at a hotel near the Brown University campus. However, during a late-night press conference, Rhode Island officials announced that Erickson is no longer considered a person of interest and has been cleared in the investigation.
Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha said the fast-moving nature of the investigation made early evidence difficult to assess. The shooting, which occurred Saturday during a university class session, resulted in the deaths of 2 students and left 9 others injured.
“These cases evolve rapidly,” Neronha said, explaining that investigators often pursue multiple leads before narrowing in on the correct suspect. He noted that while there was initially some information linking Erickson to the case, new findings have redirected the investigation.
“There is no longer any basis to consider him involved,” Neronha said, adding that authorities still have significant work ahead as they continue searching for the shooter.
The suspect, who has not yet been identified, entered an economics class review session and opened fire before fleeing the scene. Witnesses reported hearing the shooter shout something unclear during the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue efforts to locate and identify the suspect.
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