Brown University Community Mourns Loss After Campus Shooting

A senior at Brown University is grieving the loss of her friend, Ella Cook, one of the victims of a recent campus shooting. She described it as a “devastating loss” for everyone involved.

“It’s really hard to comprehend that she’s gone,” stated Phoebe Pace during an interview. She reflected on how Cook had a vibrant personality and was passionate about many things.

Cook, just 19 years old, was known for her strong presence and was described as outspoken by her peers. They connected through the Brown Republican Club, where she was actively involved.

In a separate account, Peus noted the panic that erupted when news of the shooting spread. Instead of official notifications from the university, it was friends reaching out that alerted her to the situation.

“We have this chat platform at Brown called Side Chat, and it just lit up with alerts about a shooter,” she explained. Although Peus missed the initial message, she received a call from a friend while heading to the library, which took her completely by surprise.

As the situation unfolded, Peus experienced deep concern for Cook after several hours without any word from her. She noted, “We were all hoping she had maybe just dropped her phone.” Unfortunately, it became clear something was wrong when Cook’s location hadn’t moved.

Alongside Ella Cook, a new student named Mohammad Aziz Umurzokov was also identified as a victim. His family has set up a GoFundMe campaign asking for thoughts and prayers, highlighting his aspirations to become a neurosurgeon.

While authorities have detained a suspect linked to the shooting, they were subsequently released. The tragic event has left at least nine individuals injured in what was an unimaginable day for the Brown University community.