Reddit tipster Leads to crack in Brown University shooting investigation
The critical lead came from an anonymous Reddit user, identified only as “John” in a Providence police affidavit. John, a Brown University graduate, spotted Neves Valente and recognized him, prompting a Reddit post urging authorities to check a grey Nissan with Florida plates, possibly a rental. Police had not previously linked any vehicle to the suspect.
“He blew this case right open,” Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha said. John’s tip enabled police to track the Nissan through multiple street cameras, eventually connecting it to a rental in Boston. From the rental agreement, investigators identified Neves Valente. The vehicle was later traced to a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire, where the suspect was found dead.
A post-mortem suggested he had died two days before authorities discovered him.
According to the affidavit, John had multiple encounters with the suspect prior to the shooting.
Hours before the attack at Brown, John noticed Neves Valente’s clothing seemed inappropriate for the weather and followed him outside. A “game of cat and mouse” ensued, including a brief exchange in which John confronted the suspect about circling the block.
Beyond reporting the car, John provided other key details to law enforcement and was described as fully cooperative. His information helped establish the suspect’s movements, including his proximity to the MIT professor’s home.
Authorities are still investigating the motive for the killings and have not confirmed whether John will receive the $50,000 reward offered for information leading to the suspect’s identification. FBI Agent Ted Docks indicated that it would be logical for him to be entitled to the reward.
The Reddit tip highlights the growing role of social media and vigilant citizens in assisting law enforcement during high-profile cases.
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