Two students remembered for their promise, kindness, and ambition
The Brown University community is mourning the loss of two students killed in a campus shooting in Providence, Rhode Island. The attack, which unfolded on Saturday, left two people dead and nine others injured, sending shockwaves through the Ivy League campus.
In the hours that followed, students, professors, and families came together to honour the victims—Ella Cook, a second-year student, and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, a first-year student. On Sunday evening, the university held a candlelight vigil as loved ones shared memories and reflected on lives filled with potential.
Below is what we know about the students whose lives were cut tragically short.
Ella Cook, 19: A “bright light” on campus
Ella Cook was a second-year student at Brown University and served as vice-president of the school’s Republican student organisation. Friends and faculty members remember her as confident, compassionate, and deeply engaged in campus life.
At the time of the shooting, Cook was attending a review session for an introductory economics exam. Investigators say a masked gunman entered the classroom and opened fire, killing her.
Beyond academics, Cook expressed herself through music and community work. She was an accomplished pianist and spent her summers working at a local ice cream shop. Moreover, classmates say she brought warmth and positivity wherever she went.
Following her death, Martin Bertao, president of the College Republicans of America, released a statement expressing deep sorrow. He said Cook showed courage, leadership, and kindness while supporting her fellow students.
Meanwhile, the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham, Alabama—near her hometown—held a vigil in her honour. Church leaders described her as grounded, faithful, and a guiding presence within the community.
Tributes also came from national figures. Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville said he was heartbroken by her death. Likewise, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt shared a message of sympathy, offering prayers to Cook’s family and friends.
Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, 18: A gifted student with dreams of healing
Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov had only just begun his first year at Brown University. Even so, his family says he already stood out for his discipline, humility, and determination.
During high school, Umurzokov enrolled in every Advanced Placement class available to him. At the same time, he worked summer shifts at a local convenience store to save enough money to buy a laptop. According to his sister, he pushed himself constantly to achieve his goals.
After arriving at Brown, Umurzokov started working toward his dream of becoming a neurosurgeon. His passion for medicine stemmed from his own childhood health struggles, which included brain surgery and a long recovery.
His family remembers him as kind, funny, and thoughtful. In a GoFundMe tribute, they wrote that he wanted to dedicate his life to helping others and continued to inspire those around him.
In addition, the American Uzbekistan Association shared a tribute praising his humility and compassion. The group said he earned respect and admiration through his character and actions.
A university community united in grief
As the investigation continues, the Brown University community remains united in mourning. Vigils, shared stories, and messages of support now serve as powerful reminders of two young lives defined by hope, ambition, and purpose.
