Alabama Woman Among Victims in Brown University Shooting

An Alabama woman was tragically one of two students killed during a mass shooting at Brown University, as reported by her church. The Cathedral Church of Advent in Birmingham shared the news, indicating that the incident took place in a classroom on the university’s campus in Providence, Rhode Island, leading to the death of parishioner Ella Cook.

Pastor Craig Smalley addressed the incident during a video posted online, saying, “Some people may not be familiar with it, but many have heard about… the tragedy at Brown University yesterday.” He expressed sorrow over Cook’s death, noting how she was “encouraging and uplifting,” positively impacting everyone around her.

Cook, a sophomore, was also the vice chair of the Brown University Republicans. Smalley reflected on her character, terming her “incredibly down-to-earth” and stating she was a “bright light” in the community.

The College Republicans of America expressed their devastation over Cook’s death, emphasizing her boldness and kind heart in their statement. “Ella served her chapter and her classmates,” they said, adding their thoughts and prayers for her family and the entire Brown community as they cope with this loss.

The shooting occurred around 4 p.m. on Saturday in the Barth and Hawley School of Engineering, resulting in two fatalities and nine injuries. Authorities have yet to publicly identify the second victim as they work to notify family members.

Initially, a person of interest was taken into custody by police; however, they were later released. The search for the perpetrator continues, with police highlighting the importance of CCTV footage showing a man dressed in black as significant in locating the assailant.