In the wake of the tragic shooting that took place on Saturday at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, the university’s Catholic chaplain has come forward expressing sorrow for the victims, Ella Cook and Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov. 

Dominican Father Justin Bolger told the Register, “It’s been a devastating few days here as we mourn the loss of our students.”

On Saturday, a gunman entered a classroom on the Ivy League campus and opened fire, killing Cook and Umurzokov. At least nine others were wounded, with seven students still being treated at the hospital.

Remembering Cook, Father Bolger shared, “She loved Jesus Christ. She was a sweet and strong soul. She found friends among the Catholic community, though herself Episcopal, and enjoyed going to Mass and other events at the Catholic Center occasionally.”

But, he added, “most of all, she was a beautiful soul who radiated Christ. We have offered Masses for her repose and for Mukhammad, the other deceased. We are praying especially for Ella’s family and their consolation.”

The Dominican priest continued: “Brown lost a bright light with Ella’s passing, but we entrust her to our Lord Jesus, who she loved and believed in, confident in his loving mercy.”

The 19-year-old Alabama native’s obituary also referenced her strong Christian faith, including her love for leading Sunday school at Cathedral Church of the Advent (Episcopal) in Birmingham. Her parents and two sisters are still in shock and mourning.

Recognizing Ella’s fervent desire to know Jesus, the obituary by her family reads:

“The qualities of Ella’s personality and ‘soul’ that most touched others were, foremost, her Christian faith, and especially her faith in the Death and Resurrection of Christ. She really meant it! And she wanted to share the good news of the grace that she received from the Cross. Not only did her personal faith shine out like a bright Christmas star, but she loved others as real people, not as objects. Ella loved God with her whole heart and she loved people — with her whole heart!”

The Diocese of Providence remembered Cook for the camaraderie she had built with the Catholic community on campus, writing on social media:

Cook, a sophomore, served as vice president of Brown’s College Republicans. 

Recognizing her love for conservative politics, Vice President JD Vance took to social media this week, writing about Cook.

“This beautiful young girl was one of the murdered students at Brown University. It takes special courage to lead an organization of conservatives on a left-wing campus, and I am sorry our country has lost one of its bright young stars,” he stated, adding: “Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord.”

Vance, who is Catholic, also wrote about the young man who was killed in the shooting, calling him “a brilliant young man who dreamed of being a surgeon. May God rest the soul of Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov.”

Born in Uzbekistan, his family wrote on a GoFundMe page: “He was incredibly kind, funny, and smart. Our family is incredibly devastated by this loss.”

Many students stopped by a makeshift memorial to remember the victims before leaving for winter break.

Bishop Bruce Lewandowski of Providence offered immediate prayers for all affected by the tragedy:

“As are many, I am deeply saddened and troubled by the senseless shooting today at Brown University in Providence. Let us unite in prayer for those who lost their lives, for the injured, for the Brown University community and all affected by this tragedy.”

With the shooter still at large, the city remains on high alert. Newly released surveillance videos show the alleged suspect near campus hours before the horrendous attack. The FBI describes the individual as a male, approximately 5-foot-8, with a stocky build.

“May God continue to guide our elected officials, law enforcement, and first responders as they work to keep everyone safe. The Diocese of Providence offers its resources, clergy and personnel, and charitable assistance wherever needed,” Bishop Lewandowski said.

“May God bless us all and may Our Lady of Providence keep us in her care.”

The Register joins in prayer for all affected.