Remembering Ella and Mukhammad: A Community in Mourning

The Brown University community is still reeling from a tragic shooting that took place over the weekend. Two students, Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, lost their lives, while nine others were injured. The campus is now a mix of grief and determination, with memorials growing and investigations ongoing.

Remembering Ella Cook

Ella Cook, a sophomore from Birmingham, Alabama, was remembered by her close friend Phoebe Peus as a bright and welcoming person. Peus, a senior at Brown, shared her memories on a national news show, highlighting Ella's outspoken nature and her role as vice president of the Brown University College Republicans.

"Ella was unsure about her future career path but was considering switching from French to economics, possibly pursuing a career in policy. Her potential was immense, and her loss is deeply felt."

Honoring Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov

Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, a recent graduate from Midlothian High School in Virginia, had dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon. His family shared his aspirations on a GoFundMe page, reflecting on his big dreams and the impact he hoped to make.

"Virginia Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger expressed her heartbreak over his tragic death."

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with authorities releasing surveillance footage of a person of interest. The footage shows a male, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall with a stocky build, dressed in all black and walking through what appears to be a residential area.

"Law enforcement experts suggest that more details may need to be released to the public to assist in the investigation."

The gunman targeted Brown University, according to Chief Colonel Oscar L. Perez, Jr. Authorities are looking into possible motives, including reports that the gunman yelled something during the shooting. The families of the victims have been cooperative, and the community is coming together to support one another.

Community Response

Memorials have been set up around the campus, with messages of love, support, and questions about when enough will be enough. The community is united in their grief and determination to honor the lives lost and support those injured.