Two people have been killed in a shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley said, the Associated Press reported.
Eight others are in critical condition, he added. The mayor confirmed that the shooter has not been detained. The AP and NBC News previously reported two deaths. According to the network, up to 20 other people were injured.
The shooting took place in the engineering and physics building, Smiley said. The engineering school was in the middle of final exams, Provost Francis Doyle added.
The suspect is a man dressed in black, Providence Deputy Police Chief Tim O'Hara said. "We are using every resource available to locate the suspect," he assured.
Police are still unsure how the man entered the building. According to CNN law enforcement sources, a shootout involving police took place a few blocks from the shooting scene, but the connection between that incident and the alleged shooter remains unclear.
A weapon has not yet been found. The chancellor asked everyone to take shelter on and around campus.
US President Donald Trump called for prayers for the victims and survivors.
„I am aware of the situation at Brown University. "It's terrible, and all we can do right now is pray for the victims and, obviously, for those who are very seriously injured," Trump said.