College Republicans Vice Chair Ella Cook Murdered In Brown Shooting

The Right Angle Editorial Board 

The bright young life of 19-year-old Brown College Republicans Vice Chair Ella Cook was taken from her on Dec. 13th, 2025, at Brown University. Ella was one of two students killed in the attack that also injured nine others. 

The killer, a foreign national, potentially targeted Cook specifically for her political beliefs, according to College Republicans of America Chairman William Branson Donahue.

“Ella Cook has been identified as one of the victims from the attack,” Donahue wrote on X. “I’m told she was allegedly targeted for her conservative beliefs, hunted, and killed in cold blood.” 

“It’s difficult being one of the only students at your school to stand up and fight for your values,” Donahue added. “As a sophomore, Ella Cook was brave enough to join chapter leadership.”

Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville would also claim the shooting was targeted during an appearance on the Benny Show. 

This brutal slaying comes just a few months after Charlie Kirk’s violent assassination, which rocked the conservative world. It now seems as if the murder of right-wing figures, both national and local, has become the norm.

Cook was a sophomore studying French and Mathematical Economics at Brown when her bright future was cut short. Her life stood as a testament to the love of Christ to all around her, and her bright light and love for others were evident in everything she did. 

She was described by coaches and mentors as a “kind” and “quiet” leader known for her multitude of interests, especially teaching young people in Bible studies, Sunday school, and academics. Cook loved children and even believed her highest calling was to become a mother one day.  

According to her obituary, “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!”​

May we all be inspired to continue Cook’s mission, humbly serving our community and standing boldly in our convictions and our faith in an environment that is often openly hostile.