Authorities said that one person was killed and another was injured in two separate shootings that occurred during South Carolina State University’s (SCSU) homecoming weekend on Saturday evening. The incidents prompted the Orangeburg campus to go into lockdown late Saturday night, October 4, according to officials.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) confirmed in a statement that both shootings took place on the SCSU campus on Saturday evening. A woman was killed in one of the shootings, and a man was injured in another, the (SLED) said, with the man currently hospitalized. Their identities have not been publicly released. SLED said in its release that “the shootings are not believed to be connected at this time,” adding that both investigations remain “active and ongoing.”
SCSU officials issued an emergency alert shortly after reports of gunfire near Hugine Suites, a student residence hall. The shootings unfolded amid homecoming festivities that followed the university’s annual football game, according to reports. The university’s campus went into lockdown, with a homecoming concert scheduled for Saturday night and all homecoming events scheduled for Sunday canceled. Residents of the dormitory were asked to stay in place while off-campus residents were told to leave the campus, according to the alert. Non-students were asked not to come to the campus. The alert also instructed residents of Hugine Suites who were not inside the building to go to the Smith–Hammond–Middleton Memorial Center.
The notice read: “The South Carolina State University campus is on lockdown following a shooting. Homecoming events scheduled for Sunday have been canceled. If you are not a current student, please do not attempt to come to campus.” while those already inside were told to remain in place. Students living in other residence halls were directed to return to their rooms.
In a statement obtained by WCHS-TV, SCSU President Alexander Conyers said, “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. 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. I ask everyone to continue caring for one another.”
The historically Black university is located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, about 40 miles south of the state capital, Columbia. SLED continues to investigate both incidents and is urging anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses can contact the agency at (866) 472-8477 or email tips@sled.sc.gov.
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