Authorities have confirmed that Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, 48, the suspect in the recent tragic incidents at Brown University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. His body was discovered on December 18 in a storage unit in Salem, New Hampshire, where he had apparently taken his own life two days after allegedly committing the shootings.

Reports indicate that Neves Valente had a troubling history while attending Brown University, expressing disdain for the institution, which he found unsatisfactory. A former classmate and now professor, Scott Watson, suggested that Neves Valente had complained about the curriculum and felt he was more knowledgeable than his peers. Watson described the suspect’s sentiments about Brown and Providence as quite negative.

Investigators are exploring details of Neves Valente’s background, including a potential visit to a shooting range in New Hampshire prior to the attacks. A receipt indicating his presence at that location was located in the storage unit, although the name of the range has not been disclosed. Furthermore, authorities discovered two Glock handguns equipped with laser sights and a significant amount of ammunition—nearly 200 rounds—along with body armor and cash at the scene.

While it’s uncertain how Neves Valente procured his firearms, Nicholas Daugustine, owner of Milford Firearms, speculated that he may have acquired them in Florida, where he previously lived. Any firearm purchase would require a background check in the state of residence.

Despite the details surrounding the events, the motive for Neves Valente’s violent actions remains largely unexplained. U.S. Attorney for Massachusetts Leah B. Foley remarked on the horrific nature of the incident, emphasizing the profound impact on the families of the victims and suggesting that Neves Valente’s choice to take his own life may have stemmed not from remorse but from a desire to evade accountability.

The investigation continues as authorities seek to piece together the details leading up to this devastating series of events.