One person was killed and two other victims were injured in two unrelated shootings near a student dormitory at South Carolina State University, police revealed Sunday morning.
The reported shootings prompted the public, historically black university to initiate a campuswide lockdown amid the active threat late Saturday. As a result, many homecoming events were canceled.
One of the shootings left a woman dead, and the other left a man injured, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division said. Neither victim was identified.
A third victim was reportedly injured while running away from one of the shootings. It was unclear if he sustained a gunshot wound or merely fell while fleeing the scene.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the young woman who lost her life and to all who have been affected,” SCSU President Alexander Conyers said in a statement. “We are cooperating fully with law enforcement as they investigate these senseless acts of violence. The safety and well-being of our students, employees, and guests remain our top priority.”
Students in the affected dormitory were advised to stay in place during the lockdown, while off-campus residents were told to leave. Nonstudents were also advised to stay away from campus.
Counseling services are being provided in the wake of the tragic shootings.
The investigation continues, with state police taking the lead. No information on the involved suspects was immediately available.
South Carolina lawmakers responded to the shooting on social media.
Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) said his office is “closely monitoring the situation” at the university and offered his prayers for the campus community’s safety.
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Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) said she was “heartbroken” by the news.
“One guest lost her life and two others were injured during homecoming celebrations,” she wrote on X. “Please join us in praying for the victims, their families, and the entire Bulldog community as they grieve this tragedy.”