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Brown University president mourns loss of Ella Cook, Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov: ‘Never forget’

Brown University President Christina H. Paxson released a message to the community on Tuesday mourning the loss of two “beloved” students, Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, in a mass shooting that happened on campus over the weekend. 

“Three days ago, we lost two members of our Brown community to an act of unimaginable and senseless violence,” Paxson wrote
. “These were two young people whose amazing promise was extinguished too soon.” 

Paxson said Cook was a sophomore and Umurzokov was in his first semester. 

“While it is impossible for words to fully convey Ella’s and Mukhammad’s impact and potential, I want to share a little bit about them as we grieve their loss and seek to honor their memories,” the message read, in part. “Both were brilliant and beloved — as members of our campus community, but even more by their friends and families. Our hearts continue to be with them in their profound sorrow.” 

Paxson described Cook as an accomplished competitive pianist and a volunteer leader for the her church near her hometown in Alabama. 

“She was known for her compassionate, loyal and courageous spirit, and we understand she was described by a church leader as a ‘tremendous bright light’ who brought peace and faith to all those around her,” Paxson wrote. 

Umurzokov was “driven, conscientious and disciplined,” especially in his pursuit to become a neurosurgeon, the message said. 

“A first-year student, he arrived this fall with a passion for medicine born from a personal experience, and he planned to concentrate in biochemistry and molecular biology to help realize his dream of becoming a doctor,” Paxson wrote. “His friends and family have spoken of his clear commitment to serving others.”

Cook is survived by her parents, her brother and sister. Umurzokov is survived by his parents and two sisters.