A Midlothian High School graduate who aspired to become a neurosurgeon was identified as one of two victims in a shooting at Brown University on Saturday.
Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, 18, an immigrant from Uzbekistan and U.S. citizen, instead died at the hands of a gunman in a Providence, Rhode Island, classroom, approximately 500 miles from Chesterfield County, Virginia.
At a time when he was likely wrapping up exams from his first semester and preparing to head home for winter break, his family instead is left to make his final arrangements.
The shooting also killed Alabama sophomore Ella Cook and injured nine others.
No suspect has been named though police have released photos and videos of the suspect.
A person of interest had previously been detained but was released after police said “the evidence now points in a different direction.”
‘A future filled with promise’
“Aziz was known for his sharp intellect, kind heart and quiet willingness to help anyone in need. He carried himself with humility and compassion, earning the respect and affection of those around him,” wrote the American Uzbekistan Association on social media. “His curiosity, discipline, and generosity reflected both his character and the values of the community that raised him.”
It said he was a “beloved son, brother and friend.”
“He had a future filled with promise, and his life was cut short far too soon.”
His family set up a gofundme fundraiser that has received more than 7,000 donations and collected more than $335,000.
“He was incredibly kind, funny, and smart,” they wrote. “He had big dreams of becoming a neurosurgeon and helping people. He continues to be my family’s biggest role model in all aspects.
“He always lent a helping hand to anyone in need without hesitation and was the most kind-hearted person our family knew. Our family is incredibly devastated by this loss.”
‘Goodbye, friend’
He was described as witty and “fiercely intelligent” by friends.
“Mukhammad, you live on in us now; in the impact you’ve had on us, on the lessons we have learned from you and most importantly in our treasured memories of time spent with you,” wrote a friend on the gofundme.
“I will weep for you now, but I will learn from you always. Goodbye, friend.”
Others who didn’t know him were compelled to donate to his family and share condolences.
“Thank you for sharing Mukhammad’s story,” one wrote. “He will remain an inspiration to many neurosurgeons and for all those students working for their big dreams.”
Politicians pray for those impacted by tragedy
Politicians throughout Virginia also weighed in on the tragic news on Monday.
“I am heartbroken to learn that Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov, who just graduated from Midlothian High School, is among the victims of the horrific act of violence at Brown University,” said Virginia Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger. “Adam and I are praying for his family and all those impacted by this tragedy.”
U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) also released statements on Umurzokov’s death.
“Mukhammad’s family remembers him as incredibly kind and caring – he dreamed of being a neurosurgeon so he could dedicate his life to helping others. Mukhammad and Ella Cook, the other innocent victim of this senseless tragedy, should both be traveling home to be with their families for winter break, who are now facing unimaginable pain. I am praying for the loved ones of Mukhammad and Ella,” Kaine wrote.
“Today, pause to remember Mukhammad, read about his life and think of his family,” Warner wrote.
Exams and classes at Brown University were cancelled for the rest of the semester.
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Crystal Graham
