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Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov identified as second victim killed in Brown University shooting

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Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov identified as second victim killed in Brown University shooting

Providence, R.I. — Authorities and family members have identified Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov as the second victim killed in Saturday’s mass shooting at Brown University, an attack that has left the campus and multiple communities across the country in mourning.

MukhammadAziz Umurzokov, remembered by loved ones as exceptionally kind, intelligent, and selfless, was fatally shot on December 13 during the incident inside an engineering building on Brown’s campus.

Family members described him as a young man with extraordinary ambition and compassion, who dreamed of becoming a neurosurgeon so he could dedicate his life to helping others.

“He was incredibly kind, funny, and smart,” his family said in a public statement. “He always lent a helping hand to anyone in need without hesitation and was the most kind-hearted person our family knew. He continues to be our biggest role model in every aspect of life.”

Those who knew Umurzokov said he carried himself with humility, discipline, and quiet generosity, earning deep respect from classmates, friends, and members of the broader community.

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His sharp intellect and curiosity were matched by a genuine concern for others, traits that reflected both his character and the values instilled in him by his family and cultural community.

More than a gifted student, Umurzokov was a beloved son, brother, and friend, whose life was filled with promise and potential.

His death has left what family members described as an immeasurable void, not only within their household but also among friends, classmates, and the Uzbek American community nationwide.

In a statement, the American Uzbekistan Association extended its deepest condolences to Umurzokov’s family, expressing solidarity during what it called “a time of unimaginable grief,” and thanking those who have offered prayers and messages of support.

MukhammadAziz Umurzokov will be remembered for his kindness, his aspirations, and the light he brought into the lives of others.

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His family has announced that any donations made in his memory will help cover funeral and related expenses, with remaining funds to be donated to charity in his name.

The other victim killed in the shooting has been identified as Ella Cook, a sophomore from Alabama, according to her church and university officials.

sophomore Alabama student Ella Cook identified as one of the two victims killed in Brown University shooting

Cook was a parishioner at Cathedral Church of the Advent in downtown Birmingham, where she was remembered as an “incredible, grounded, faithful bright light” who consistently uplifted those around her.

During Sunday morning services, Rev. Craig Smalley told congregants that Cook’s presence had a profound impact both at her church and at Brown University.

“She was an incredible, grounded, faithful bright light,” Smalley said. “In the ways she served faithfully, encouraged others, and lifted up those around her — both here at the Advent and at Brown University — she was an incredible light in that place as well.”

The shooting occurred shortly before 4 p.m. Saturday inside an engineering building during one of the busiest times of the academic year, as final exams were underway. In addition to the two fatalities, nine people were wounded.

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University officials said one student has been released from the hospital, seven remain hospitalized in critical but stable condition, and one victim is in critical condition.

Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez said Sunday afternoon that no one has been charged, and the investigation remains active.

A person of interest, Benjamin Warren Erickson, who was detained at a Hampton Inn in Coventry, Rhode Island, approximately 20 miles from Providence, has since been released after investigators determined he was not involved.

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha acknowledged that initial evidence appeared to point toward Erickson but later proved incorrect. “Sometimes you head in one direction and then you have to regroup and go in another,” Neronha said. He also criticized the premature public release of Erickson’s name, calling it “really unfortunate” and noting the difficulty of reversing such damage once information is made public.

Authorities emphasized that the gunman remains at large, and the investigation is ongoing. No further details about the suspect or victims have been released at this time.

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As Brown University and the wider community continue to grieve, tributes continue to pour in for MukhammadAziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook, two young lives remembered for their compassion, promise, and lasting impact.


Crime

17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky

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17-Year-Old Javohn Pitts Critically Injured in Accidental Shooting During FaceTime Call in Elsmere, Kentucky

A 17-year-old teenager, identified as Javohn Pitts, remains in critical condition after being shot in the head during an incident involving a handgun at a residence in Elsmere, Kentucky, on Saturday. Police say the shooting appears to have occurred while two juveniles were showing the firearm to others during a FaceTime call.

The incident prompted an emergency response in Northern Kentucky and left the teenager with potentially life-threatening injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a Cincinnati hospital, where he continues to receive medical treatment.

According to the Elsmere Police Department, officers were dispatched to a reported shooting in the 100 block of Garvey Avenue early Saturday afternoon.

When first responders arrived, they found Javohn Pitts suffering from a gunshot wound to the head. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, emergency personnel arranged for him to be airlifted to University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

Pitts remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to the information provided by police. Authorities have not released further details about his medical condition or prognosis.

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During their investigation, police recovered a 9mm handgun from the residence.

Investigators believe the shooting happened while Pitts and another juvenile, who was acquainted with him, were displaying the handgun to other people during a FaceTime call. At some point during the incident, the firearm discharged, striking Pitts in the head.

Although the incident is being described as an apparent accidental shooting, authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the discharge and the events leading up to it.

A juvenile suspect was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. Police reported that the suspect was acquainted with Pitts and has been charged with second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.

Because the individual is a juvenile, authorities have not publicly released the suspect’s identity.

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The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information about the incident may be released as authorities continue reviewing the evidence.

Police are asking anyone who may have information about the shooting to contact the Kenton County Emergency Communication Center at 859-356-3191 or the Elsmere Police Department at 859-474-4785.

Information from witnesses or anyone familiar with the circumstances may help investigators establish a clearer account of what happened inside the Garvey Avenue residence.

At just 17 years old, Javohn Pitts is facing a serious medical battle following the shooting. His critical condition has left those who care about him hoping for positive news as he receives treatment.

The incident is also a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with handling firearms, particularly when a weapon is displayed or handled without proper safety precautions. A firearm can discharge unexpectedly, with consequences that may permanently change lives.

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As the investigation continues, thoughts remain with Javohn Pitts, his family, and everyone hoping for his recovery. May he receive the care and support he needs during this difficult time.

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