Deadly Attack Victims: Stories & Identities Revealed

A shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, on Saturday left two students dead and nine others injured. The victims have been identified as Ella Cook, 19, and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, 18.

Ella Cook, 19

Ms. Cook was described as an accomplished pianist and a standout student who worked at a local ice cream shop during the summers. She was attending a review session for an upcoming economics exam when the shooting occurred.

Martin Bertao, president of the College Republicans of America, said the group was “devastated to learn of the loss” of Ms. Cook, who served as vice-president of the school’s Republican student organization. “Ella was known for her bold, brave and kind heart as she served her chapter and fellow classmates,” he said.

A vigil was held in Ms. Cook’s honor at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham, Alabama, near her hometown. The church described her as an “incredible grounded, faithful, bright light.”

Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville said he was “heartbroken” over her death. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on X, “There are no words. Thinking of her family and friends, especially her parents. God please bless them.”

Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, 18

Mr. Umurzokov was remembered as a gifted student and promising scholar. His sister, Rukhsora Umurzokova, told the Washington Post that he took every Advanced Placement class available in high school and worked at a convenience store to save money for a laptop.

“It just seems so unfair, because he tried so hard and he went through so much, just to wind up like this,” she said.

Mr. Umurzokov received a scholarship to attend Brown, where he planned to study to become a neurosurgeon. His aspiration was inspired by his own childhood brain surgery and lengthy recovery, his sister said.

“He was incredibly kind, funny, and smart,” his family said in a GoFundMe created for him. “He had big dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon and helping people. He continues to be my family’s biggest role model in all aspects.”

The American Uzbekistan Association said Mr. Umurzokov “carried himself with humility and compassion, earning the respect and affection of those around him.” “He had a future filled with promise, and his life was cut short far too soon,” the association said.