Tragic Shooting at Brown University

Authorities have identified the victims of a tragic shooting that occurred during a review session at Brown University, resulting in the deaths of two students and injuries to nine others. The incident sent shockwaves through the campus community.

As of Monday evening, the shooter remains at large, and police are conducting an extensive manhunt for the suspect.

The shooting took place around 4:05 PM on Saturday in a classroom within the Barth and Holly Building, where students gathered for an introductory economics review session. The assailant entered and opened fire.

The deceased students were named as Ella Cook, a 19-year-old sophomore from Birmingham, Alabama, and Muhammad Aziz Umurzokov, an 18-year-old freshman originally from Uzbekistan but recently living in Virginia.

Often, authorities do not release the names of those injured to protect their privacy, leaving it up to the victims or their families to disclose their identities.

About Ella Cook

Ella Cook was known for her active involvement in the Brown University Republican Chapter and her local church community. Friends and church members have described her as a compassionate and uplifting person, who dedicated time to both worship and community service. Despite being part of a minority political perspective at a predominantly liberal university, she managed to earn the respect of her peers through her kindness and supportive nature.

Xi Van Fleet, a conservative activist, touched on their encounter during a lunch back in April, noting Cook’s intelligence and warmth. They had discussed the challenges faced by conservatives on campus, and Van Fleet expressed sorrow at the news of Cook’s passing.

“We talked about what it was like to be a conservative on campus, current events and the history of communism,” she commented.

About Muhammad Aziz Umurzokov

Muhammad Aziz Umurzokov was a scholarship student with ambitions to become a neurosurgeon, inspired by his own past medical challenges. Friends shared that his determination blossomed from his childhood surgery when he was just ten years old, which left a significant impact on him.

His family immigrated to the U.S. in 2011, and Umurzokov had just graduated from high school in Virginia. Known for his humor and generosity, he left a lasting positive impression on those around him.

“He was the nicest guy. If you needed help, he would help you,” a high school friend remarked.

All nine individuals injured in the shooting received treatment at Rhode Island Hospital, with conditions ranging from critical to stable. By Sunday, at least one victim had been released.

Brown University President Christina Paxson expressed deep sadness over the incident. To ensure the well-being of the community, the university canceled all remaining classes and activities for the fall semester, with some exceptions for medical and MBA programs.

A candlelight vigil brought hundreds together at Lippitt Memorial Park to mourn the victims and celebrate their lives. Reports indicate that before the shooting, the suspect may have shouted something, prompting speculation about the motives behind the attack. However, law enforcement has not confirmed any specific statements or intentions at this time.

The investigation is ongoing, and the Brown University community is coping with the aftermath, calling for heightened safety measures.

In connection with the case, the FBI has released a new image of a person of interest and is offering a reward for information that could lead to an arrest.