They Should Have Made It Home: Remember the Brown University Students Lost to Gun Violence
The two students killed in the shooting at Brown University should have been able to return home safely after finishing their final exams. They deserved long lives, full futures, and the chance to become everything they dreamed of being. We honor them by remembering who they were, sharing their stories, and refusing to center attention on the person who caused this harm.
Ella Cook was a second-year student at Brown University and a cherished daughter, sister, and friend. She was deeply connected to her hometown church in Alabama, where she was known for her faith, generosity, and warmth. Her pastor described her as “a tremendous bright light” and someone who was “incredibly faithful and generous.” Ella was only 19 years old, yet she left a profound impact on everyone who knew her.
MukhammadAziz Umurzokov was a first-year student at Brown University with a clear sense of purpose. He dreamed of becoming a neurosurgeon so he could help others and improve lives. His sister remembered him as someone who “always lent a helping hand to anyone in need, without hesitation,” calling him “the kindest person.” A high school friend shared the disbelief and grief felt by many: “I heard the news from a group chat. None of us wanted to believe it. Even now, I still can’t. We miss you so, so much.”
We refuse to accept a reality where fear, grief, and loss are routine parts of education and daily life. We should not have to mourn young people whose futures were taken by preventable acts of gun violence.
In honoring Ella and MukhammadAziz—along with the survivors and all those impacted—we recommit to the work of ending gun violence. Their lives mattered. Their stories matter. And remembering them means demanding a safer future for everyone.
