Two Students Identified as Search Continues for Brown University Shooter
Authorities have confirmed the identities of the two students killed in a shooting at Brown University, as police continue efforts to locate the suspect who remains at large.
The victims were identified as Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, students at the Ivy League university in Providence, Rhode Island. The shooting took place on Saturday inside an academic building on campus and left nine other people injured.
Law enforcement officials said the search for the gunman has resumed after a previously detained “person of interest” was released. Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha said investigators found no legal grounds to continue holding the individual, adding that evidence now suggests the suspect may be someone else.
Investigation Ongoing
Officials said the investigation is active and focused on reviewing additional video footage and gathering new leads. FBI Director Kash Patel stated that federal agents are working closely with local police and will continue efforts around the clock until the suspect is identified.
Providence Police Chief Colonel Oscar Perez said investigators believe the individual earlier detained is not the same person seen in surveillance footage, which shows a suspect leaving the scene dressed in dark clothing.
Authorities have not disclosed why the person was initially detained.
Campus Safety Measures
Brown University said there is no immediate threat to students or the surrounding community, but urged everyone on campus to remain cautious. The university has cancelled all remaining in-person classes and exams for the semester.
University President Christina Paxson said some areas of campus remain restricted while police complete their work. She added that around 2,000 students were temporarily relocated to safe locations overnight and thanked community members who offered support.
Tributes to the Victims
Ella Cook was remembered by classmates and student organisations as a confident and kind individual who was actively involved in campus life. Messages of condolence were shared by political leaders, faith groups, and fellow students.
Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, a first-year student and Uzbekistan national, was described by family members as hardworking, compassionate, and academically gifted. He reportedly aspired to become a neurosurgeon.
Officials from Uzbekistan and U.S. representatives expressed condolences to his family, describing his death as a tragic loss of a promising future.
Community Response
A candlelight vigil was held Sunday evening, with students, faculty, and local residents gathering to honour the victims and support their families.
Providence Mayor Brett Smiley said most of the injured are in stable condition, with one person still receiving critical care. He added that the city remains united and grateful for the courage shown by emergency responders and the wider community.
The White House also expressed sympathy, wishing the injured a full recovery and offering condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.