Brown University Police Chief Suspended After Tragic Campus Shooting

Incident Overview

On December 13, 2025, Brown University was rocked by a tragic shooting incident that left two individuals dead and nine others injured at the Barus and Holley engineering and physics building. In the aftermath, university officials announced they had placed Vice President for Public Safety and Emergency Management, Rodney Chatman, on administrative leave. This decision was made amid serious concerns regarding the university's security protocols and response leading up to the shooting.

What Led to the Chief's Suspension?

The suspension of Chatman comes as both a shock and an acknowledgment of the university's need to reevaluate its safety measures. Reports indicate that a custodian at the university had warned Chatman about a suspicious individual, identified as Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, weeks prior to the attack. The custodian, Derek Lisi, expressed deep concern after observing this man repeatedly in areas around the Barus and Holley building, and had alerted security personnel. However, it appears no significant action was taken based on these warnings.

"I said, 'Something's off with this guy, so I gotta say something,'" Lisi recounted. His actions exemplify the oft-overlooked voices of everyday employees who can provide critical insights but may not be taken seriously.

Institutional Responsibility

This incident has prompted wider scrutiny of not only Brown University's preparedness in handling such crises but also its adherence to the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act. This federal law mandates that universities ensure specific safety protocols are followed to protect students and staff. The Department of Education has initiated an investigation to assess whether Brown violated these requirements. Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized the importance of student safety:

"Students deserve to feel safe at school, and every university across this nation must protect their students and be equipped with adequate resources to aid law enforcement."

The Aftermath and Community Response

As investigations continue, Brown University has appointed former Providence Police Chief Hugh T. Clements as interim chief in place of Chatman. President Christina H. Paxson announced an "After-Action Review" would occur, aiming to closely examine the university's emergency response and security protocols. Furthermore, there will be immediate enhancements in safety measures, including expanded security camera coverage in critical areas, notably around the Barus and Holley building.

In an open letter, President Paxson stated, "As we work to heal and recover, our primary focus is to nurture a thriving campus by tending to the psychological and social health of all members of our community." However, skepticism remains among students and parents regarding the university's commitment to their safety, particularly given President Paxson's substantial salary of approximately $3.1 million in 2023—an increase of over 700% since 2012.

Reflecting on the Broader Implications

The situation at Brown University highlights a critical gap in university safety and emergency readiness protocols that many institutions across the nation struggle with. The community's trust in university leadership is frail; as demonstrated in the aftermath of this shooting, actions must speak louder than words to restore faith in campus safety. As we observe the developments from Brown, it is vital that universities cultivate environments where employees feel empowered to report concerns, and that administrators take such warnings seriously.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

This harrowing episode serves as a wake-up call for higher education institutions nationwide. It is not only a matter of assessing policies and responses but also about fostering a culture of accountability and responsiveness. The voices of frontline staff members like Derek Lisi must be elevated and valued. As more details emerge from the ongoing investigations, I encourage the community and stakeholders to engage in dialogue aimed at ensuring that our universities prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals on campus.