Sad news from Brown University in Rhode Island. A shooting on campus killed two students and hurt nine others. The victims have now been named as Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov. The shooter is still out there. Let’s go over what happened in a simple way.
What Happened?
The shooting took place on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in the Barus & Holley building. That’s the engineering and physics spot on campus. It happened during final exams week, around 4 p.m. A gunman opened fire in a review session room.
Two students died. Nine more were hurt – some badly. One person is in critical condition, others are stable, and one has gone home from the hospital.
The university canceled all classes, exams, and projects for the rest of the fall semester. They moved about 2,000 students to safe places right away.
On Sunday night, people held a candlelight vigil to remember the victims. It was meant to be a holiday event but turned into a time to grieve.
Who Were the Victims?
Ella Cook was from Alabama. She was a bright and kind student, vice president of the College Republicans at Brown. Her church called her a “tremendous light.” Friends and leaders sent many tributes, including from the White House.
Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov came from Uzbekistan. He wanted to be a neurosurgeon after having brain surgery as a kid. His family said he was the kindest person and always helped others. A GoFundMe for his family has raised over $190,000.
Both were loved by many. Their stories have touched hearts everywhere.
The Search for the Shooter
Police are working hard to find the person who did this. They had detained someone but let them go – it wasn’t the right person. They’re asking for videos from anyone nearby to help identify the suspect, seen in all black on camera.
The FBI is involved. This is the 389th mass shooting in the US this year, according to Gun Violence Archive.
Support and Reactions
Brown’s president called it a “deeply tragic” day. The mayor of Providence visited the hurt students and praised their strength.
The school is offering help like counseling and food for anyone who needs it.