Hundreds Gather in Alabama to Mourn Brown University Sophomore Ella Cook

In Birmingham, Alabama, a significant gathering took place to honor the life of Ella Cook, a 19-year-old sophomore at Brown University. Cook lost her life in a tragic incident at the university on December 13. During the memorial service held at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, friends, family, and community members recalled her as “smart, confident, curious, kind, principled, and brave.”

Details of the Tragic Incident

Ella Cook was fatally shot during an attack at Brown University, alongside freshman Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, aged 18. The shooting occurred when a gunman entered a study session in an academic building. The assailant, identified as Claudio Neves Valente, aged 48, previously attended Brown as a graduate student.

In a related event, just two days later, Neves Valente shot and killed Nuno F.G. Loureiro, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Authorities believe Neves Valente took his own life shortly thereafter in a storage facility in New Hampshire, where he was found dead on December 16.

Memorial Service and Community Outreach

During the funeral service, attendees wore “Easter colors” to honor Cook’s Christian faith. The Rev. Paul F.M. Zahl led the service and shared heartfelt messages from the Brown University community, including a tribute from professor David Skarbek. He highlighted Cook’s impact on campus in just three semesters, remarking, “We need an Alabama to Brown pipeline” — a nod to her nickname, “Ellabama.”

Ella Cook’s Legacy

• Accomplished pianist
• Studied French, mathematics, and economics
• Served as vice president of the college Republicans

Cook’s political involvement resonated widely, prompting Alabama Governor Kay Ivey to order flags to fly at half-staff statewide in her memory. Rev. Zahl encouraged attendees to keep Cook’s spirit alive, stating, “Ella’s love is eternal and entirely altruistic.” Cook’s life and contributions left a profound mark on those around her.