A deadly shooting at South Carolina State University left two people dead and another wounded on Thursday night. The incident occurred inside a student residential complex and triggered an immediate campus lockdown.
University officials confirmed that the shooting took place around 9:15 p.m. local time. The violence unfolded in an apartment at the Hugine Suites student housing complex. Consequently, authorities quickly secured the area to prevent further risk.
Campus Locked Down After Gunfire
Following reports of gunfire, the university implemented emergency safety protocols. Officials ordered a campus lockdown while law enforcement assessed the situation. As a result, students were instructed to remain indoors.
At this stage, authorities have not released the identities of the victims. Moreover, officials have not confirmed the condition of the injured individual. Therefore, uncertainty remains regarding the full scope of the tragedy.
It also remains unclear whether a suspect is in custody. Investigators have not disclosed whether anyone involved in the shooting remains at large. However, law enforcement agencies continue gathering evidence.
Investigation Underway
University officials requested assistance from the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division to investigate the shooting. The state agency has now taken the lead in examining the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Meanwhile, campus public safety officials declined to provide additional details. They stated that the investigation remains active. Consequently, authorities have limited public communication until further findings emerge.
To ensure student safety, the university canceled Friday classes. Administrators emphasized that safety remains their highest priority. In addition, support services are expected to assist affected students and staff.
About the University and Community
South Carolina State University enrolls more than 3,000 students. It is one of two historically Black universities located in Orangeburg, South Carolina. The other institution in the city is Claflin University.
Orangeburg sits about 40 miles southeast of Columbia, the state capital. The town serves as a riverfront college community with a strong academic presence. Therefore, the shooting has deeply affected both campuses and the wider community.
Ongoing Safety Concerns
Campus shootings continue to raise serious safety concerns across the United States. Therefore, institutions often respond with heightened security measures and rapid coordination with state authorities.
In this case, officials acted swiftly to lock down the campus. However, questions remain about how the incident unfolded. Authorities are expected to release more information as the investigation progresses.
For now, students and families await updates while investigators work to determine the motive and sequence of events. The tragedy has left the university community grieving and seeking answers.
