Authorities continue to investigate a tragic shooting incident that occurred at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. The shooting took place on December 13, 2025, with the gunman opening fire in a classroom located in the Barus & Holley building.
Shooting Overview
Shortly after 4 p.m. EST, a masked gunman entered a first-floor classroom where approximately 20 students were present. The students were preparing for final exams. Witnesses reported that the shooter was armed with a 9 mm handgun.
Victims of the Shooting
- Muhammad Aziz Umurzakov: A first-year student from Midlothian, Virginia, who aspired to become a neurosurgeon.
- Ella Cook: A sophomore from Mountain Brook, Alabama, who served as vice president of Brown’s chapter of College Republicans of America.
Both students were tragically killed during the incident, prompting an outpouring of grief from family, friends, and the university community.
Identifying the Suspect
The suspected shooter is described as a male approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall with a stocky build. He was seen wearing dark clothing, a surgical-style mask, and a hat. Authorities have released enhanced images of the suspect captured by surveillance cameras but have yet to confirm his identity.
Providence Police Chief Col. Oscar Perez addressed the public, urging anyone with potential video evidence to come forward. He emphasized the need for community vigilance in reviewing footage from the area.
Community Response and Public Safety Measures
The shooting has left the Brown University campus and surrounding neighborhoods feeling unsafe. Providence Mayor Brett Smiley acknowledged the heightened anxiety within the community and assured residents of an increased police presence.
The FBI has deployed nearly 30 specialists to assist in the investigation and support survivors. A reward of $50,000 is being offered for information leading to the shooter’s identification and arrest.
Challenges in the Investigation
Initial leads produced a person of interest—a 24-year-old man from Wisconsin—who was later cleared of any connection to the crime. This has raised concerns regarding the complexity and fluid nature of the investigation.
Brown University officials have faced criticism over the lack of security measures in the Barus & Holley building, as it had fewer security cameras compared to other areas on campus. Following the shooting, the university canceled all remaining classes and exams for the semester.
Future Actions and Community Initiatives
In light of the incident, local schools have heightened security protocols. Providence Public Schools canceled all after-school activities for the week as a precaution. A working group is being formed to discuss enhancing safety measures across Rhode Island’s schools and universities.
The Brown University community is reeling from this tragedy, with many calling for increased security to ensure the safety of all students and staff. Authorities continue to seek public assistance in identifying the shooter.
