In a devastating turn of events, Ella Cook, a sophomore at Brown University, was tragically killed in a mass shooting that shook the campus community on Saturday, December 14, 2025. The incident, which also claimed the life of another student, Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, and left nine others injured, has sent shockwaves through the nation.
Ella Cook, a vibrant and promising student from Alabama, was identified as one of the victims during a live-streamed Mass by her hometown church, the Cathedral Church of the Advent in Birmingham. The community has rallied in support, honoring her memory and seeking answers in the wake of this tragedy. The shooting, which took place at the Barus & Holley building, has left the community in mourning and the nation seeking justice.
The shooter, identified as Benjamin Erickson, was later detained and linked to a home in Cedarburg. Erickson, a person of interest, has been the subject of intense media scrutiny as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the devastating attack. The shooting has sparked a nationwide conversation about campus safety and the ongoing threat of gun violence. The town of Providence, home to one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country, has come together to honor the victims and support those affected by the tragedy.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Brown University President Christina Paxson released a statement expressing her deepest condolences and vowing to support the families of the victims and the campus community as they navigate this difficult time. The university has also announced plans to implement additional safety measures and resources to prevent future incidents and support the emotional well-being of students and faculty.
The impact of this tragedy extends far beyond the Brown University campus. Media outlets across the country, including Fox News and Turn to 10, have provided extensive coverage of the event, keeping the public informed and raising awareness about the ongoing threat of gun violence.
