As authorities search for the Brown University shooting gunman, witnesses are reporting sights of emergency vehicles rushing to the seen and a victim receiving CPR

Police are on the hunt for an active shooter after a mass shooting at a university this afternoon.

Eyewitnesses described seeing mass shooting victims receiving CPR after a gunman opened fire on Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island tonight.

In the initial alert issued by the university at 4.22pm local time a spokesperson said: "There's an active shooter near Barus & Holley Engineering. Lock doors, silence phones and stay stay hidden until further notice. Remember: RUN, if you are in the affected location, evacuate safely if you can; HIDE, if evacuation is not possible, take cover; FIGHT, as a last resort, take action to protect yourself."

"We are very sorry to share that we have confirmed reports of multiple shooting victims, but we do not yet have information about their condition that we are in a position to share. They have been transported to local hospitals .

"Our first priority is the safety of our community and coordinating closely with local law enforcement and medical personnel to ensure their safety. We are working immediately to determine who was in the building at the time of the shooting. We had multiple exams scheduled in that building from 2 pm to 5 pm. We can confirm that support services are on site. We have also relocated students to get support services at a secure location.

"Senior administrative leaders from across the University are convened in emergency command to mobilize ongoing response and support for our community. We are establishing support for our community and families."

We have been and continue to be very grateful to law enforcement and emergency medical personnel. Please continue to take all steps to remain safe. Follow the instructions of law enforcement personnel and avoid the area.

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