Orangeburg, South Carolina, October 7, 2025
News Summary
Two shootings occurred on the South Carolina State University campus during homecoming celebrations, resulting in one fatality and one injury. The incidents prompted a campus-wide lockdown and increased security measures. The university has canceled classes and offered counseling services to affected students. An arrest has been made in connection with the shootings, leading to community concerns about safety amid the ongoing festivities.
Orangeburg, South Carolina – Two separate shootings unfolded on the campus of South Carolina State University (SCSU) during homecoming celebrations on the evening of Saturday, October 4. The incidents resulted in the death of one woman and left another man injured, triggering a campus-wide lockdown while festivities were ongoing.
The first shooting claimed the life of 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler from Saluda, with authorities confirming her death shortly after the incident. A subsequent shooting injured a man, who was then hospitalized; however, his condition has not been specified. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) indicated that the two shootings are not believed to be connected at this time.
In response to the violent events, the university has enacted enhanced security measures that include vehicle checks and identity verifications. Classes scheduled for Monday have been canceled due to the lockdown, and a concert planned for the same night was also called off. These measures aim to ensure the safety of students and faculty members during this distressing time.
The following day, an 18-year-old named Matthew Daniel McCoy was arrested in connection with the shootings. McCoy faces charges for pointing and presenting a firearm at a person and for carrying a weapon on school property. Reports indicate that McCoy had a loaded Glock handgun in his vehicle parked on campus, and fired two shots toward an unidentified male after witnessing a fight. However, authorities have not confirmed whether McCoy was involved in the shooting that resulted in Butler’s death or the incident that injured the male victim.
The Orangeburg County Coroner has announced that an autopsy for Butler is scheduled for later this week. Earlier the same day as the shootings, five individuals were arrested attempting to bring weapons onto the SCSU campus, heightening concerns about safety.
Following the incidents, students expressed feelings of fear and confusion as their homecoming celebrations were disrupted by violence. To provide support, the university’s Counseling and Self-Development Center is offering counseling services to students affected by the events. University President Alexander Conyers has called for community support and extended condolences to the victims and their families.
Parents have been instructed to check on their children at designated public safety checkpoints or to contact the university’s public safety department for updates. U.S. Representative Nancy Mace and Senator Tim Scott have also shared their condolences, emphasizing the tragic nature of the events.
In light of these incidents, university officials have planned a town hall meeting to address concerns and provide further information to students and parents. These actions are part of an ongoing effort to reinforce safety and support within the university community during this challenging period.
Key Details of the Incident
- Two shootings occurred during homecoming celebrations.
- 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler was fatally shot, and a man was injured.
- Matthew Daniel McCoy, 18, was arrested and charged.
- Increased security measures were implemented on campus.
- Classes canceled for Monday, homecoming concert was canceled.
- Campus-wide lockdown was enforced after the shootings.
Background Context
South Carolina State University has faced increased security concerns as evidenced by the earlier arrests of five individuals trying to bring weapons onto campus. With homecoming traditionally a time of celebration, the incidents have profoundly impacted the atmosphere at the university.
FAQ
What happened during the homecoming celebrations at South Carolina State University?
Two separate shootings occurred on the campus on the evening of Saturday, Oct. 4, leaving one woman dead and one man injured.
Who was the victim of the first shooting?
The first incident resulted in the death of 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler from Saluda.
What were the immediate responses by the university?
The university implemented enhanced security measures, including vehicle checks and ID verifications, and canceled classes for Monday.
Was anyone arrested in connection with the shootings?
18-year-old Matthew Daniel McCoy was arrested on Sunday and faces charges related to the incidents.
How are students being supported after the shootings?
The university’s Counseling and Self-Development Center is offering counseling support to students affected by the incidents.
What actions did university officials plan following the incidents?
A town hall meeting was scheduled by university officials to address concerns and provide information to students and parents.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | October 4, 2023 |
| Number of Shootings | Two |
| Casualties | One dead (Jaliyah Butler), one injured |
| Arrest Made | Matthew Daniel McCoy |
| Charges Against Arrested | Pointing/presenting a firearm, carrying a weapon on school property |
| Campus Response | Enhanced security measures, classes canceled, counseling support initiated |
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Additional Resources
- WISTV: Teen Charged Following Deadly SC State Shooting
- USA Today: Shootings at South Carolina State University
- WRDW: 1 Killed, 2 Hurt in South Carolina State University Shootings
- ABC News 4: 1 Dead After Homecoming Shooting at SC State
- WYFF4: South Carolina State University on Lockdown After Shots Fired
- Wikipedia: South Carolina State University
- Google Search: South Carolina State University shootings
- Google Scholar: South Carolina State University shootings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Shooting
- Google News: South Carolina State University shootings
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