Chaos at South Carolina State University: Two Separate Shootings Leave One Dead, One Injured During Homecoming Weekend
ORANGEBURG, SC — What should have been a weekend of celebration at South Carolina State University quickly turned into a tragedy when two separate shootings rocked the campus during homecoming festivities, leaving one person dead and another hospitalized.
Two Shootings, One Night of Panic
Authorities say the violence erupted late Saturday, October 4, during the historically Black university’s annual homecoming celebrations.
According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the first shooting took place near Hugine Suites, a campus housing complex, while the second occurred shortly afterward in a nearby area.
A 19-year-old woman — later identified by the Orangeburg County Coroner as Jaliyah Butler of Saluda, South Carolina — was killed in one of the incidents. A male victim was also shot and hospitalized, though his name has not yet been released.
Officials say the shootings are not believed to be connected, though both remain under investigation.
18-Year-Old Arrested
On Sunday, investigators arrested 18-year-old Matthew Daniel McCoy in connection with the shootings. According to WIS News 10, McCoy has been charged with pointing and presenting a firearm at a person and carrying a weapon on school property.
An arrest warrant states that McCoy had a loaded Glock handgun in his car, parked on campus. He allegedly retrieved the weapon after seeing a fight between two groups and fired twice toward a man wearing a black-and-red hoodie.
At this time, authorities have not confirmed whether McCoy was responsible for either of the shootings that left Butler dead or the second victim wounded.
Campus on Lockdown
Following the chaos, South Carolina State University immediately issued a campus-wide lockdown.
An alert on the university’s website warned:
“The South Carolina State University campus is on lockdown following a shooting. All homecoming events scheduled for Sunday have been canceled. If you are not a current student, please do not attempt to come to campus.”
Residents in Hugine Suites were told to shelter in place, while others were directed to the Smith–Hammond–Middleton Memorial Center for safety.
University President Alexander Conyers later released a statement expressing condolences to the victim’s family and emphasizing that the school was cooperating fully with law enforcement.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the young woman who lost her life and to all who have been affected,” Conyers said. “The safety and well-being of our students, employees, and guests remain our top priority.”
Homecoming Events Canceled
All remaining homecoming weekend events were canceled as SLED and local police continued their investigation. Officials said classes were also suspended on Monday as the campus remained closed.
SLED is urging anyone with information about either shooting to contact their tip line at (866) 472-8477 or email tips@sled.sc.gov.
Community in Shock
The tragic incidents have shaken South Carolina’s HBCU community, with students and alumni expressing heartbreak and frustration over the violence.
“Homecoming is supposed to be a celebration,” one student told reporters. “Now it feels like we can’t even feel safe on our own campus.”
Community members have since organized vigils for Butler, describing her as a bright, kind young woman with big dreams ahead.
How should universities handle gun violence on campus during major events like homecoming? Join the discussion in the comments on FatCityFeed.com.
