Key Points:
- A woman was killed and a man injured in two separate shootings at South Carolina State University (SCSU) during homecoming celebrations.
- Authorities have charged an 18-year-old in connection with one incident, though investigations continue.
- The historically Black university has canceled classes and events as police maintain an active lockdown and investigation.
Tragedy Strikes During Homecoming Celebrations
South Carolina State University’s campus in Orangeburg remains on lockdown after two separate shootings Saturday night left one woman dead and another man injured. The incidents occurred during the university’s homecoming festivities, prompting the cancellation of weekend events and Monday classes as police continue to investigate.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) confirmed the female victim, identified as 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler, was pronounced dead at MUSC Health Orangeburg. A second victim, a male guest, was flown to another hospital and remains hospitalized. Officials say both victims were not students but visitors attending homecoming events.
Authorities arrested 18-year-old Matthew Daniel McCoy, who now faces charges for carrying a firearm on school property and pointing a weapon. According to arrest documents, McCoy allegedly retrieved a loaded Glock from his vehicle and fired twice after witnessing a fight. However, police have not linked McCoy directly to either of the shootings that left Butler dead and the man wounded.
University President Alexander Conyers expressed condolences to the victims’ families, saying, “We are cooperating fully with law enforcement as they investigate these senseless acts of violence. The safety and well-being of our students, employees, and guests remain our top priority.”
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Heightened Security and Ongoing Investigation
The first shooting occurred near Hugine Suites, a student residential complex, triggering an immediate lockdown. Students were ordered to shelter in place while non-residents were directed off campus. The second shooting, which injured a male guest, took place later that evening. SLED has stated the two incidents are not believed to be connected at this time.
In response, SCSU officials have tightened campus security, implementing controlled entry points, enhanced surveillance, and emergency communication protocols. Only students, staff, and investigators currently have campus access.
“Throughout Homecoming Week, we worked closely with local and state agencies to ensure safety,” said Gerald Hubbard Smalls, SCSU vice president for finance and administration. “We are grateful to our law enforcement partners for their professionalism and rapid response.”
Counseling and support services are being offered through the university’s Counseling and Self-Development Center as the campus community mourns.
The shootings have sparked shock and sorrow across South Carolina. U.S. Representative Nancy Mace shared condolences on X, saying she was “heartbroken by the tragic events” and asked for prayers for “the victims, their families, and the entire Bulldog community.”
SLED’s investigation remains ongoing as South Carolina State University — the state’s only public historically Black university — grapples with the aftermath of a weekend that was meant to celebrate unity but instead turned tragic.
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