Connect with us

Crime

Victims killed in Brown University shooting ID’d as Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook

Published

on

Victims killed in Brown University shooting ID'd as Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov and Ella Cook suspect at large

Providence, R.I. — Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov has been identified as the second victim killed in the deadly shooting at Brown University on December 13, an incident that has deeply shaken the campus and communities across the country.

Family members and loved ones described Umurzokov as exceptionally kind, intelligent, and compassionate, with a natural warmth that left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

He was known for his sense of humor, humility, and unwavering willingness to help others without hesitation. Those closest to him said he consistently put the needs of others before his own and served as a role model within his family and community.

Umurzokov was a highly motivated student with ambitious dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon, hoping one day to dedicate his life to helping and healing others.

His curiosity, discipline, and generosity reflected both his personal character and the values instilled in him by his family and upbringing.

Advertisement

“More than a gifted student, Aziz was a beloved son, brother, and friend,” his family shared. “He had a future filled with promise, and his life was taken far too soon.” His death has left what they described as an immeasurable void in the lives of his family, friends, classmates, and the broader Uzbek American community.

In a statement, the American Uzbekistan Association extended its deepest condolences to Umurzokov’s family, expressing solidarity during this period of profound grief and gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and support from the public.

Family members have said that donations made in his memory will help cover immediate expenses, with remaining funds to be donated to charity in his name.

Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, and potential, and for the light he brought into the lives of those around him.

Authorities have also confirmed the identity of the other victim as Ella Cook, a sophomore from Alabama. 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 others.

Advertisement

During Sunday services, Rev. Craig Smalley spoke about Cook’s impact, noting her dedication to service and her ability to encourage and inspire those around her both at her church and at Brown University.

“Those who knew her knew she was an incredible light,” Smalley said. He urged the congregation to keep Cook’s family and loved ones in their prayers.

The shooting occurred shortly before 4 p.m. Saturday inside an engineering building while final exams were underway, one of the busiest periods of the academic year.

In addition to the two fatalities, nine people were wounded.

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

Advertisement

Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez said Sunday that no charges have been filed, and the investigation remains ongoing.

A previously detained person of interest, Benjamin Warren Erickson, was taken into custody at a hotel in Coventry, Rhode Island, but was later released after investigators determined he was not involved in the shooting.

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha acknowledged that early evidence appeared to point in that direction but later proved otherwise.

He also criticized the premature public release of the individual’s name, noting the lasting harm such disclosures can cause.

Authorities emphasized that the gunman remains at large, and law enforcement agencies at the local, state, and federal levels continue to actively pursue leads as the investigation continues.

Advertisement

Crime

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

Published

on

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.

Advertisement

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.

Advertisement

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.

Advertisement

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.

Continue Reading