On the afternoon of Dec. 13, an exam review session at Brown University turned fatal when a gunman opened fire, killing two students and injuring nine others. Among those wounded was Clover Hill alumni Matthew Wang.
The two students who lost their lives in the shooting have been identified as sophomore Ella Cook from Birmingham, Alabama, and freshman Mukhammad Aziz Umurzokov. Umurzokov was a United States dual citizen from Uzbekistan, and a recent graduate of Midlothian High School here in Chesterfield.
Wang was last year’s Student Council Association (SCA) President, a dedicated student, and leader at our school, and he was among those injured during the incident. Wang and medical professionals confirm that he is actively recovering and expected to make a full recovery. His spirit and dedication have been an inspiration to the Hill as everyone reflects on his commitment to the community.
After the shooting, a group of teachers organized a large banner and several cards that students could sign to express support and encouragement for Wang and everyone affected by the shooting. These messages of hope and unity serve as a reminder that even in hard times, communities can and will come together.
This shooting marks the 389th mass shooting in the United States, and it has reignited conversations about safety and preventing gun violence. Brown University is continuing to work with police during the search for the shooter, and memorials have been held on campus to honor the memory of those lost.
As the holiday break approaches and the Brown community begins healing, this incident serves as a reminder that there is strength and power in a community’s support. Through cards, banners, and heartfelt messages, Clover Hill wishes Wang a speedy recovery and honors the lives of those taken too soon.
In an effort to continue the support of Wang and his family during his road to recovery, a “GoFundMe” has been started in an effort to help them with the ongoing costs of his recovery from this horrific event.
