Investigation Breakthrough Through Public Tip
In Providence, Rhode Island, law enforcement officials have credited a confidential source with providing the essential information needed to solve a series of violent incidents. This individual, referred to only as "John" in official documents, came forward with observations that became pivotal in the investigation.
Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha commented on the development, stating, "He blew this case right open," regarding the information that led authorities to the gunman approximately one day later. He added, "When you crack it, you crack it."
Sequence of Events and Tipster's Role
The investigation began after a shooter fired over 40 rounds inside an engineering building at Brown University, creating widespread concern in the community as days passed without a suspect identification. Progress accelerated on the sixth day, culminating with police announcing late Thursday that the suspected individual was found deceased from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
According to police records, John had multiple interactions with 48-year-old Claudio Neves Valente prior to the Saturday attack. After authorities released images of a person of interest—later identified as Neves Valente—John posted on Reddit, recognizing the individual and suggesting police investigate a possible rental gray Nissan. Users encouraged him to contact the FBI, which he reported doing. Police received this tip on December 16, three days post-shooting and one day after establishing a tip line.
This information allowed investigators to locate additional footage of a Nissan Sentra with Florida license plates and utilize over 70 street cameras operated by Flock Safety in the area.
Critical Details from the Encounter
The affidavit notes that John provided further key observations: he encountered Neves Valente in the engineering building's bathroom hours before the incident, noting the suspect's attire was "inappropriate and inadequate for the weather." During a police interview, John identified photos of the suspect's vehicle and likely the suspect from images at an Alamo car rental in November.
John also described an outdoor encounter near the building, where he witnessed Neves Valente "suddenly" turn around from the Nissan upon seeing him. John testified this led to a "game of cat and mouse," with repeated encounters where Neves Valente would flee. At one point, John recalled shouting, "Your car is back there, why are you circling the block?"
The affidavit records the suspect's response: "I don't know you from nobody," followed by repeated questions of, "Why are you harassing me?"
John eventually saw Neves Valente approach the Nissan again and chose to leave the area. On Wednesday night, John wrote on Reddit, "Respectfully, I have said all I have to say on the matter to the right people."
On Friday, the FBI declined to disclose whether John would receive the $50,000 reward offered for information on the Brown shooting, citing policy to protect privacy and encourage future public cooperation.
