On Saturday afternoon, an unthinkable act of mass violence on the campus of Brown University claims the lives of two students and injures nine others. Ella Cook, a second-year from Alabama, found herself in the crossfire of the attack that spun out of control inside the engineering building. Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, a first-year national of Uzbekistan, was another casualty of the mayhem. The senseless act has rippled through the university community and the nation, prompting outrage, sadness and concern.
Investigators found the gunman opened fire inside a classroom, firing more than 40 rounds with a 9mm handgun. Law enforcement officials were able to quickly apprehend a person of interest after the shooting. They seized two handguns and two loaded 30-round magazines. The police have already ruled out the motive, although they are still investigating. They admit that discovery in the case is still developing.
Ella Cook was a standard-bearer, spiritual leader and beloved leader. Her commitment as vice president of Brown’s chapter of College Republicans of America made an indelible impression. Her family raced to the hospital after the shooting, but it was too late—they lost their daughter while trying to save her. On Sunday, a church service in Birmingham honored her memory, with attendees describing her as “an incredible, grounded, faithful, bright light.”
“She was known for her bold, brave, and kind heart as she served her chapter and fellow classmates.” – Martin Bertao
He was a gifted student who dreamed of becoming a neurosurgeon, serving his community and changing people’s lives. His sister, Samira Umurzokova, expressed the family’s grief and started a GoFundMe campaign to support their family during this difficult time. She remembered her brother, who she said was “incredibly kind, funny and smart,” with the ambitious dreams he once shared with others.
“He always lent a helping hand to anyone in need without hesitation, and was the most kind-hearted person our family knew. Our family is incredibly devastated by this loss.” – Samira Umurzokova
Rodriguez told us that the real fear stemming from the shooting focused on safety within the university community. University Chancellor Brett Smiley understood how much damage the theft could have done. He said it is likely to increase stress levels among students, as well as teachers.
“We know that this is likely to cause fresh anxiety for our community.” – Brett Smiley
The investigation continues. The suspect U.S. Attorney Peter Neronha disclosed that the evidence timeline for the suspect has drastically shifted in the past 24 hours.
“There was some degree of evidence that pointed to the individual. That evidence needed to be corroborated and confirmed. And over the last 24 hours leading into just very, very recently, that evidence now points in a different direction.” – Peter Neronha
We are deeply saddened by this situation and authorities remain focused on finding out all the facts surrounding this tragic incident as they care for those impacted. The community at Brown University is understandably devastated by the loss of two brilliant young lives. They were outstanding kids with a bright future under their feet.