NORTH SMITHFIELD – The town of North Smithfield is adopting enhanced security at schools and public gathering spots in light of the shooting this week at Brown University following news on Sunday that the suspect remains at large.
Two people were killed in the mass shooting in a lecture hall at the school on Saturday, Dec. 13, identified as Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook. At least nine others were injured and one remains in critical condition.
A person of interest detained by federal agents over the weekend was later released. As of early Monday afternoon, officials said the investigation remains ongoing, and police are asking those in the area to see if they can provide video footage from the time of the incident, between 4 and 4:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon. Video and images can be submitted to the FBI here.
A release from North Smithfield Town Hall on Monday, Dec. 15 noted that town administration has been in communication with the North Smithfield Fire Department and North Smithfield Police Department in response to the shooting since Saturday.
“The police department is presently adopting changes to its procedures and manpower assignments to enhance security at the town’s schools and other areas/events where there is a congregation of people,” stated a notice to residents. “These changes in procedures will continue indefinitely until greater clarity is obtained regarding the Brown University shooting.”
