SUMMARY
- The South Carolina State University shooting triggered an overnight lockdown and cancellation of Friday classes.
- Investigators from the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division are leading the case.
- The incident underscores broader concerns about residential security at US colleges.
Two people were killed and at least one injured in a late night South Carolina State University shooting at a student residential complex in South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, authorities said Friday, prompting a lockdown and renewed scrutiny of campus safety.
University officials said the South Carolina State University shooting occurred Thursday night near student housing, forcing students and staff to shelter in place for nearly eight hours.
The lockdown was lifted early Friday, but administrators suspended classes to allow investigators to secure the scene and provide support services. Authorities have not identified the victims or disclosed the injured person’s condition.
The South Carolina State University shooting marks the third gun related incident reported on or near campus since fall.
During October homecoming celebrations, a nineteen year old woman was killed and another person injured near the same housing area.
Like many universities nationwide, South Carolina State University has expanded patrols and emergency alert systems in recent years to respond quickly to threats affecting student populations.
Orangeburg Department of Public Safety Chief Charles Austin said coordination between campus police and state investigators remains critical.
“Our priority is securing evidence, identifying those responsible and ensuring the safety of students and residents,” Austin said.
James Alan Fox, a criminology professor at University of South Carolina, said campus shootings often stem from interpersonal disputes rather than random attacks.
“Residential complexes create dense social environments where conflicts can escalate quickly without early intervention,” Fox said.
Kaya Mack, who was making a delivery on campus, told WLTX she heard gunfire followed by police sirens. “Everyone stopped and looked around because we didn’t know what was happening,” Mack said.
University President Alexander Conyers said counseling and safety resources were made available. “Our campus community is grieving, and we are committed to supporting students during this difficult time,” Conyers said.
Investigators said they are reviewing surveillance video, interviewing witnesses and increasing patrols around campus housing.
Officials have not announced arrests or identified suspects connected to the South Carolina State University shooting.
The South Carolina State University shooting adds to ongoing national concerns about campus safety and emergency preparedness in student residential communities.
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