PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Authorities have identified the two people killed in the deadly shooting at Brown University on Saturday, December 13, as Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, a tragedy that has sent shockwaves through the campus and communities far beyond Providence.
The shooting occurred shortly before 4 p.m. inside an engineering building while final examinations were underway, one of the busiest and most stressful periods of the academic year. University officials confirmed that, in addition to the two fatalities, nine people were injured in the attack. One victim has since been released from the hospital, seven remain hospitalized in critical but stable condition, and one individual continues to be listed in critical condition.
Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov was identified as the second fatality on Sunday. Family members and loved ones described him as an exceptionally kind, intelligent, and compassionate young man whose presence left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. Known for his humility and gentle sense of humor, Umurzokov was remembered as someone who consistently put others before himself and offered help without hesitation.
A highly motivated and driven student, Umurzokov aspired to become a neurosurgeon, hoping to dedicate his life to healing others. Those closest to him said his academic discipline, curiosity, and generosity reflected not only his personal character but also the strong values instilled by his family and upbringing.
“More than a gifted student, Aziz was a beloved son, brother, and friend,” his family shared in a statement. “He had a future filled with promise, and his life was taken far too soon.” His death has left what loved ones described as an immeasurable void within his family, his classmates, and the broader Uzbek American community. The American Uzbekistan Association extended its condolences, expressing solidarity with the family and gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support.
Family members also noted that donations made in Umurzokov’s memory will help cover immediate expenses, with remaining funds to be donated to charitable causes in his name.
The other victim was identified as Ella Cook, a sophomore from Alabama. Cook was remembered by those who knew her as a bright, grounded, and deeply faithful young woman whose kindness and sense of purpose touched many lives. She was a parishioner at Cathedral Church of the Advent in downtown Birmingham, where she was described as a consistent source of encouragement and light.
During Sunday services, Rev. Craig Smalley spoke of Cook’s devotion to service and her ability to uplift others, both within her church community and among her peers at Brown University. Friends and mentors recalled her as someone who lived with intention, compassion, and a strong sense of responsibility toward those around her.
Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez said the investigation into the shooting remains ongoing and that no charges have been filed at this time. A person of interest, Benjamin Warren Erickson, was briefly detained at a hotel in Coventry, Rhode Island, but was later released after investigators determined he was not involved in the attack. Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha acknowledged that early evidence appeared to point in that direction but later proved incorrect, criticizing the premature public release of Erickson’s name and noting the lasting harm such actions can cause.
As the investigation continues, Brown University officials have emphasized support for students, faculty, and staff affected by the violence. Vigils and memorials are being planned as the campus community mourns the loss of two young lives and rallies around those still recovering.
Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov are being remembered not only for the circumstances of their deaths, but for the promise, compassion, and humanity they brought into the lives of others — legacies that now endure amid grief and unanswered questions.