On December 13, the shooting at Brown University changed the rhythm and sense of safety in our neighborhood. In the chaos and fear that followed, one local witness, known publicly only as “John”, noticed something important and chose to speak up. His tip helped investigators connect key details and move the case forward. John did not do it for attention. He did it because he felt he could not stay silent.
Our café, Ceremony, is located just two blocks from where the shooting occurred. That afternoon began like so many others until students suddenly began reacting in real time. Some rushed out. Others came in looking for shelter. In a matter of minutes, a normal shift became something else entirely as we all locked down: confusing, surreal, and frightening.
In the days that followed, the fear and uncertainty did not end when the lockdown did. Our neighborhood was shaken, and many of us were left trying to make sense of what had happened and what came next.
After reading about John, we reached out simply to thank him and to offer help. John and Chris are both Brown alumni from the class of 2010, and while they did not know each other then, we hoped that connection would convey enough trust. Since then, we have met up several times. John is thoughtful, humble, and deeply private.
John originally did not want a GoFundMe because he did not want to make this about himself. But with his full knowledge and blessing, we are starting this fundraiser in the hope of helping him move toward lasting stability and security.
Goal: $50,000
We set a goal of $50,000, matching the amount of the publicly posted FBI reward.
Why we’re raising this money
More than anything, this fundraiser is about giving John a real chance at stability.
John is currently without permanent housing and is trying to build a safer, steadier future. This fundraiser is meant to help make that possible.
Funds raised will help with:
• Stable housing, including deposits, rent, and other costs tied to securing a more permanent place to live
• Urgent dental care
• Student loan debt, which is currently overwhelming and makes it harder to get back on his feet
• Everyday essentials, including transportation and phone service
• Job-readiness costs, such as clothing, classes, and training materials
This is not about recognition. It is about helping John move toward something safer, steadier, and more secure after he stepped up for this community.
How funds will be handled
Because John is still in the process of setting up a bank account, and because he does not yet have the permanent address needed to be listed directly as the GoFundMe beneficiary, donations will first be received into a separate account created specifically for this fundraiser.
Once his bank account is established, funds will be transferred to him in documented tranches, and we will share periodic updates so donors can see how the funds are being used to support him. If urgent needs come up before then, we may, with his consent, pay for essentials directly and keep clear records.
Privacy
We are keeping John anonymous for his safety and dignity. Any updates we share will focus on progress and outcomes, without revealing unnecessary personal details.
Thank you
If you are able to donate, thank you. If you are not, sharing this fundraiser helps just as much.
Our neighborhood was shaken on Dec. 13. John stepped up in one of the hardest moments our community has faced. This is our community’s way, quietly and respectfully, of stepping up for him now.
— Chris & Michelle