Providence, R.I. — On a chilly Saturday afternoon during final exam week, Brown University’s quiet campus was shattered by gunfire that left two talented students dead and nine others wounded, plunging families and friends into grief and sparking a tense, ongoing investigation. Among the victims was Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, remembered by loved ones as a brilliant, compassionate young man with dreams far bigger than his years.
Umurzokov, a first-year student, was described by his family as “exceptionally kind, intelligent, and compassionate,” someone whose natural warmth and sense of humor lit up every room he entered. He was studying with purpose and passion, driven by a goal to become a neurosurgeon — a dream rooted in his desire to heal and help others. Those closest to him said he put others before himself and served as a role model within his community.
Friends and relatives have shared memories of his humility and generosity, and how he carried himself with a calm confidence that belied his age. “More than a gifted student, Aziz was a beloved son, brother, and friend,” his family said in a statement, mourning a future that was taken far too soon. In the wake of his death, they have encouraged those who wish to honor his legacy to support causes that reflect his devotion to helping others.
The other student killed was Ella Cook, a sophomore from Alabama and vice president of Brown’s College Republicans, who was celebrated in her Birmingham church as a “bright light” with a deep faith and a contagious spirit. Her pastor spoke fondly of her steadfast dedication to uplifting those around her, both at home and on campus.
The shooting erupted around 4 p.m. inside the Barus & Holley building, where students were preparing for final exams in engineering and physics. The room was full of anxious energy as finals loomed — until the first shots rang out. Students described a surreal scene of panic, with friends diving under desks and scrambling for cover. First responders rushed in as a shelter-in-place order was issued, sending shockwaves through the campus and surrounding neighborhood.
Nine other individuals were wounded and transported to Rhode Island Hospital. Officials say one has been released, several remain in stable condition, and others continue to receive critical care. The university has moved swiftly to support those affected, canceling upcoming exams and offering counseling and community gatherings as students try to process the trauma.
Law enforcement initially detained a person of interest early Sunday in connection with the shooting, but authorities have since clarified that no charges have been filed and that the individual was released after police determined he was not involved. A detailed manhunt unfolded in the hours after the attack, involving local, state, and federal agencies combing the area and reviewing surveillance footage to identify the shooter, who remains at large.
Across Providence and beyond, the city remains on alert and the Brown community in mourning. Vigils have been held, flowers and notes have been laid, and students and faculty are holding space for one another in a time of profound pain. The focus now turns to healing, remembrance, and the difficult work of finding answers in a tragedy that has shaken not just a campus, but countless hearts across the country.
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