Brown University Lecture Hall Incident: Student Recounts Harrowing Moment

Joseph Oduro, a student at Brown University, shared a chilling account from inside a lecture hall where he faced an armed intruder wielding a rifle. Oduro was conducting a study session for an economics exam when the gunman entered.

In an interview with ABC News' Whit Johnson, Oduro vividly recalled his initial reaction upon seeing the weapon. "The gun was so enormous that it seemed unreal," Oduro mentioned, bracing himself for what felt like an inevitable end.

Officials reported a tragic outcome with two fatalities and nine injuries from Saturday's turmoil. By Sunday, law enforcement had detained a suspect at a hotel in Coventry without yet revealing the individual's identity or motive.

A Day of Chaos: Eyewitness Description

Oduro recounted the chaos that erupted in room 160 of the Barus & Holley building, where he and around 50-60 students heard alarming noises resembling screams and gunfire.

Dressed head to toe in dark attire, the intruder carried something that might have been extra ammunition or protective gear. "He entered, and our eyes met briefly," Oduro reflected. The room immediately filled with panic.

As shots rang out, students scrambled for safety. Oduro directed some to shelter behind a table with him, as the assailant, positioned at the upper part of the amphitheater, fired repeatedly.

Oduro estimated nearly 50 gunshots throughout the ordeal, with numerous attendees of his review session suffering injuries.

Believing he might not survive, Oduro messaged his parents, expressing love and gratitude for all they had done.

Amidst the terror, Oduro valiantly sought to comfort an injured peer. He offered his hand for her to squeeze, hoping to help her endure quietly to avoid attracting the gunman's attention.

After the Shooter Departed

Once the gunman exited, Oduro and other students hesitated to move, fearful of another encounter.

Even as the police arrived, none made a move, wary of the situation potentially escalating.

Ref Bari, another Brown student, recalled being in the building at the time and the confusion that ensued as he heard unfamiliar sounds echo nearby.

Rushing out amidst silence and the echo of gunshots, Bari notified fellow students and sought refuge with the help of a friend.