Two Dead, One Injured in Shooting at South Carolina State University
ORANGEBURG, S.C. — A shooting at South Carolina State University on Thursday night left two people dead and at least one other injured, prompting a swift lockdown of the campus and cancellation of Friday classes. The incident occurred at approximately 9:15 p.m. in an apartment within the Hugine Suites student residential complex, according to a statement from the university.
The university’s Department of Public Safety, with assistance from the Orangeburg Department of Public Safety and the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, responded immediately and secured the area. The campus remained on lockdown as of early Friday morning while the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) conducted a thorough investigation into the shooting.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or the condition of the wounded individual. University officials confirmed that classes scheduled for Friday were canceled in response to the tragic event, aiming to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff.
South Carolina State University, a historically Black university located in Orangeburg, has been working closely with law enforcement agencies to manage the situation and provide support to the campus community. The university’s swift lockdown and coordination with local and state agencies reflect protocols recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for responding to campus violence.
As the investigation continues, SLED agents are gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The university has urged anyone with information to come forward to assist law enforcement.
This incident adds to a troubling pattern of gun violence affecting educational institutions nationwide. The Bureau of Justice Statistics reports that while school shootings remain rare compared to other forms of violence, their impact on communities is profound and lasting.
South Carolina State University has also activated counseling and support services for students and faculty affected by the tragedy. Officials emphasize the importance of community resilience and cooperation as the investigation unfolds.
For ongoing updates, the public is encouraged to follow official university communications and local law enforcement announcements. The university’s Department of Public Safety can be reached for urgent concerns, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
More information about campus safety protocols and resources can be found on the U.S. Department of Education’s campus safety page.
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