Global shootings leave dozens dead as investigators search for answers
A weekend of devastating gun violence across two continents has left communities mourning and investigators racing to determine what happened, as world leaders condemned the attacks and vowed accountability.
(NBC)- A weekend of devastating gun violence across two continents has left communities mourning and investigators racing to determine what happened, as world leaders condemned the attacks and vowed accountability.
In the United States, two people were killed and nine others injured in a shooting inside a classroom at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. Authorities say the attack unfolded quickly, sending students and faculty scrambling for safety as police rushed to the scene.
Overnight, Rhode Island investigators announced they had released a person of interest who had been detained in connection with the shooting. Attorney General Peter Neronha said while some evidence initially pointed to that individual, further investigation changed the direction of the case.
“There was some degree of evidence that pointed to this individual, but that evidence needed to be corroborated and confirmed,” Neronha said. “That evidence now points in a different direction.”
Security video reviewed by investigators shows a person believed to be the shooter, though officials say the footage does not provide a clear image of the suspect’s face. The search for the gunman continues.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley sought to reassure residents, saying authorities have not identified any ongoing danger to the community.
“We have not received any credible or specific threats to the Providence community,” Smiley said.
President Donald Trump addressed the Brown University shooting, offering condolences to the victims and their families.
“To the nine injured, get well fast, and to the families of those two that are no longer with us, I pay my deepest regards and respects from the United States of America,” Trump said.
Meanwhile, in Sydney, Australia, authorities say at least 15 people were killed and nearly 30 hospitalized after a shooting at Bondi Beach. Investigators have labeled the attack an antisemitic act of terrorism targeting Jewish people who were celebrating the first day of Hanukkah at one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations.
Police identified two suspects — a father and son — in connection with the attack. The 50-year-old suspect was fatally shot at the scene, while his 24-year-old son remains in custody and hospitalized with critical injuries. Officials say a bystander is being hailed as a hero for disarming one of the gunmen during the chaos.
Eyewitnesses described a prolonged and terrifying scene.
“What was the most shocking was how long the gunfire lasted,” one witness said.
As investigations continue in both countries, officials are urging patience while emphasizing support for the victims and their families.
