Mustapha Kharbouch Not Named as Person of Interest Amid Online Speculation in Brown University Shooting

Mustapha Kharbouch has not been named a person of interest in the deadly December 13 Brown University shooting, despite widespread online speculation and rumors circulating on social media as the manhunt for the real suspect continues.

Authorities in Providence, Rhode Island, have confirmed that no individual by the name of Mustapha Kharbouch is considered a suspect or person of interest in the shooting that left two Brown University students dead and nine others injured during a classroom session.

Speculation intensified online after claims surfaced that Brown University had removed the online profile of a first-year Palestinian refugee student, leading some social media users to falsely link Kharbouch to the attack. Law enforcement officials have not supported or acknowledged those claims, and no evidence has been presented tying Kharbouch to the crime.

As of more than 72 hours after the attack, investigators say the actual shooter remains unidentified and at large. Authorities have urged the public to refrain from speculation and to provide only verified tips.

On Tuesday, FBI Director Kash Patel released a video timeline showing the movements of the suspected gunman captured on surveillance footage. In all released clips, the suspect’s face is either masked or turned away, preventing identification. Officials have described the suspect only as a stocky male approximately 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall, dressed in dark clothing.

Law enforcement agencies, including the Providence Police Department, Rhode Island State Police, and the FBI, emphasized that no name has been officially linked to the shooter and that online accusations risk harming innocent individuals.

Investigators continue reviewing surveillance footage and gathering evidence as the search for the shooter remains ongoing.

Authorities are urging anyone with credible information related to the suspect or the shooting to contact law enforcement and to avoid spreading unverified claims.