Suspect in Brown University & MIT Shootings Found Dead After Multi-State Manhunt

Providence, R.I. — The man believed to be responsible for the deadly Brown University shooting and the killing of an MIT professor was found dead inside a storage facility in New Hampshire, authorities confirmed Thursday, bringing an end to a days-long manhunt that spread across multiple states.

According to reporting by GBH News, the suspect was discovered in a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire, where investigators believe he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound as law enforcement closed in.

Suspect Identified

Police identified the suspect as Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, 48, a Portuguese national who had previously studied at Brown University years ago but had no current affiliation with the campus at the time of the attack.

Investigators recovered weapons and other evidence from the scene, which are now being examined to determine how they connect to both incidents, according to authorities cited by Reuters.

Timeline of the Attacks

Brown University Shooting

The violence began on December 13, when Valente allegedly opened fire on the Brown University campus in Providence, killing two students and injuring nine others. The shooting prompted an immediate campus lockdown and sent shockwaves through the university community.

For a full breakdown of what happened that day, including confirmed details and official statements, read our detailed coverage on Brown University Shooting: What We Know.

MIT Professor Killed

Two days later, on December 15, authorities say Valente fatally shot MIT physics professor Nuno F. G. Loureiro at his home in Brookline, Massachusetts. Law enforcement later confirmed the two incidents were connected, citing surveillance footage, vehicle records, and forensic evidence, as reported by Reuters.

Motive Still Unclear

Despite the suspect being identified and found dead, officials have not released any information about a possible motive. Investigators are continuing to review Valente’s background, movements, and communications in the days leading up to the shootings.

Brown University officials emphasized that Valente was not employed or enrolled at the institution at the time of the attack, distancing the campus from any ongoing association with the suspect.

Campus Reactions and Fallout

The developments have left both academic communities shaken. Brown University expanded counseling services and mental-health support for students and staff, while the MIT community mourned Professor Loureiro, remembering him as a respected scientist and mentor.

As People.com reported, students described an atmosphere of grief mixed with unanswered questions as campuses attempted to return to normal operations.

Investigation Continues

Although authorities say there is no ongoing threat, the investigation remains active. Federal and state officials are still working to reconstruct the suspect’s movements and determine whether any warning signs were missed.

Law enforcement continues to urge anyone with relevant information to come forward.

Why This Matters

With the suspect dead, the immediate danger may be over — but the broader questions surrounding campus security, warning signs, and prevention remain unresolved. As investigators continue their work, both universities face the difficult task of healing while seeking answers.

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