Orangeburg, South Carolina, October 7, 2025
News Summary
During South Carolina State University’s Homecoming celebrations, two separate shootings occurred, resulting in one fatality and two injuries. The incident unfolded near Hugine Suites shortly after a football game, leading to heightened security measures and a campus lockdown. An 18-year-old, Matthew Daniel McCoy, has been charged in connection with one of the shootings. As investigations continue, the university has canceled classes and events, while counseling services are being offered to affected students.
Orangeburg, South Carolina – One person is dead and two others have been injured following two separate shootings at South Carolina State University during the school’s annual Homecoming celebrations. The incident occurred near the Hugine Suites, a student residential complex, shortly after a football game, leading to heightened security measures on campus and a university-wide lockdown.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has charged 18-year-old Matthew Daniel McCoy in connection with one of the shootings. He faces charges of pointing and presenting a firearm at a person and carrying a weapon on school property. As investigations continue, it remains unclear if McCoy is believed to be responsible for any of the injuries resulting from the shootings.
Authorities reported that a 19-year-old female guest, Jaliyah Butler of Saluda, was pronounced dead at MUSC Health Orangeburg. A second male guest sustained severe injuries and was airlifted to another hospital where his condition remains undisclosed. The third injured individual was hurt while attempting to flee the scene of the first shooting.
Following the shootings, South Carolina State University officials immediately placed the campus on lockdown, only allowing entry to students, employees, and investigators. Classes scheduled for Monday have been canceled, and homecoming events, including a planned concert, have been called off. Parents wanting to check on their students were directed to the Public Safety checkpoint at Chestnut Street and Wilkinson Boulevard, or to contact the department at 803-536-7188.
Initial reports indicate that the violence stemmed from an altercation between two groups, prompting McCoy to allegedly retrieve his firearm from his vehicle and fire it twice at a male victim. Witnesses described scenes of panic as gunshots rang out, and multiple students expressed concerns regarding their safety following the events.
Investigators do not believe the two shootings are connected. As the community reels from the tragedy, SC State President Alexander Conyers extended his condolences to Butler’s family and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation. In response to these incidents, officials have announced that additional safety measures, including controlled entry points and increased security monitoring, will be implemented.
In light of the shootings, U.S. Representative Jim Clyburn emphasized the urgent need for change to protect residents of South Carolina from violence. Orangeburg Mayor Michael Butler also expressed concern regarding the occurrence of the shooting during an event meant for celebration.
While no students from South Carolina State University have been reported injured, the university’s Counseling and Self-Development Center is extending counseling services for students affected by the trauma of the incidents. Ongoing discussions in the community highlight the heightened need for safety and preventive measures to ensure the well-being of students and residents alike.
McCoy is currently booked into the Orangeburg County Detention Center as investigations continue. The campus remains on lockdown while law enforcement carries on with their inquiries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the shootings at South Carolina State University?
One person was killed and two others were injured in two separate shootings during the university’s Homecoming celebrations.
Who has been charged in connection with the shooting?
Matthew Daniel McCoy, an 18-year-old, has been charged with pointing and presenting a firearm at a person, along with carrying a weapon on school property.
What is the condition of the injured individuals?
A second male guest was flown to another hospital with his condition remaining unknown, while a third guest was injured while trying to escape the first shooting.
What safety measures have been implemented on campus?
The university has announced controlled entry points and increased security monitoring following the incidents.
Is there support available for affected students?
Yes, the university’s Counseling and Self-Development Center is providing extended counseling services to support students impacted by the shootings.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | South Carolina State University, near Hugine Suites |
| Casualties | 1 dead, 2 injured |
| Assailant | Matthew Daniel McCoy, 18 |
| Charges | Pointing and presenting a firearm, carrying a weapon on school property |
| Victim Details | Jaliyah Butler, 19, pronounced dead; second male guest airlifted |
| University Response | Campus lockdown, cancellation of classes and events |
| Additional Support | Extended counseling services for affected students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
SCSU on Lockdown Following Gunfire at Hugine Suites
Shooting Incident in Irmo Claims Life of Local Woman
Tragic Shooting Incident in Irmo Leaves One Woman Dead
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Irmo Woman
Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Irmo Woman
Tragic Weekend Shootings in Columbia Raise Alarm
Double Homicide Investigation in Irmo, South Carolina
South Carolina Man Sentenced for Gas Station Shooting
Shooting Incidents in Chester County Leave One Dead
Murder Suspect Sought Following Deadly Gas Station Shooting
Additional Resources
- ABC News 4: Homecoming Shooting at SC State
- Google Search: South Carolina State University shooting
- WIS TV: Safety Concerns After SC State Shooting
- Wikipedia: Gun violence in the United States
- WLTX: SC State University Shooting Victim Identified
- Google News: South Carolina State University shooting
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
