Benjamin Erickson Released as Person of Interest as Brown University Shooter Remains at Large

Authorities have released Benjamin Erickson, a 24-year-old Wisconsin man previously identified as a person of interest in the deadly shooting at Brown University, saying investigators no longer believe he is connected to the attack. The shooter remains at large.

Providence Police confirmed Sunday night that Erickson, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was taken into custody early Sunday but was later released after investigators determined there was insufficient evidence to charge him with a crime.

Col. Oscar Perez of the Providence Police Department said during an evening press conference that Erickson is no longer considered a person of interest in the case.

Providence Mayor Brett Smiley echoed that statement during a late-night briefing around 11 p.m. Sunday, telling reporters the individual would be released from police custody, according to the Providence Journal.

Search Continues for Suspect

Investigators are now renewing efforts to locate the suspect seen in surveillance footage dressed entirely in black and calmly walking across campus following the shooting. Authorities say the suspect remains unidentified.

When asked why no additional persons of interest had been named more than 36 hours after the attack, Rhode Island Attorney General Peter F. Neronha cited limited camera coverage inside the building where the shooting occurred.

“All campus video footage has been reviewed,” Neronha said, noting that none of the available video captured a clear image of the suspect’s face.
“If we had that video, you’d have it,” he added. “If we could show you a face and say this is our suspect, you’d have it.”

Officials said investigators will continue searching for additional surveillance footage and evidence and will coordinate with federal authorities as the investigation moves into its next phase.

Shooting Details

The shooting occurred at approximately 4 p.m. Saturday when a masked gunman armed with a rifle entered the Barus and Holley Engineering Building on Brown University’s campus and opened fire in a hallway.

Authorities said the suspect then entered a classroom where about 60 students were preparing to leave after a two-hour study session for an upcoming economics exam. Witnesses told investigators the gunman shouted an unintelligible statement before firing at students.

Two students were killed in the attack, and nine others were injured. One of the injured victims remains in critical condition.

The investigation remains active as law enforcement continues its search for the shooter.