Classes canceled Monday; counseling and support available for students and families; town hall set for tonight at 6.
South Carolina State University remains under lockdown as the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) continues its investigation into two shootings that occurred on campus the evening of Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025.
Both victims were taken to a local hospital following the first shooting. The first victim, a female guest on campus, was pronounced dead. The second victim, a male guest, was airlifted to another hospital; his condition has not been released. A third guest sustained injuries while fleeing the scene.
SC State’s Department of Public Safety immediately placed the campus on lockdown and relied on assistance from SLED, the Orangeburg Department of Public Safety, the Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, and other agencies. The lockdown remains in effect as the investigation continues. As of Sunday, the campus is accessible only to students, employees, and investigators.
“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,” said President Alexander Conyers. “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.”
The shootings occurred several hours after Saturday’s Homecoming football game. The university canceled the Homecoming concert and all Sunday activities. Classes for Monday, Oct. 6, have also been canceled to allow a full safety assessment and to give students access to counseling and support services.
“We know this tragedy has shaken our Bulldog Family, and we are providing counseling and support for anyone in need,” Conyers said. “I ask everyone to continue caring for one another.”
Expanded safety and support measures
During Homecoming Week, the university had implemented extensive security measures, including coordinated law enforcement staffing and controlled entry points for major events.
“Throughout Homecoming Week, we worked closely with SLED, local law enforcement, and other partners to ensure a strong presence on and around campus,” said Dr. Gerald Hubbard Smalls, vice president for finance and administration. “We are grateful for their professionalism and rapid response.”
SC State’s Counseling and Self-Development Center has extended its hours to provide crisis consultations, grief circles, and drop-in support sessions for students through Tuesday, Oct. 7. Students in need of immediate assistance may call:
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Counseling & Self-Development Center: 803-536-7245
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Director S. Christian Jackson: 839-356-0271
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Public Safety: 803-536-7188
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SC Department of Mental Health Mobile Crisis Team: 1-833-364-2274
Message to families
President Conyers has scheduled a virtual town hall for parents and students, via Microsoft Teams to address safety measures and university response efforts. The university is also maintaining direct communication with students and employees through official channels.
Parents who wish to check on students in person should report to the Public Safety checkpoint at the Chestnut Street/Wilkinson Boulevard gate or call 803-536-7188.
“Please know that our students who reside on campus are safe within the residence halls and are being provided with meals and essential services,” Conyers said. “We will continue to share updates as new information becomes available.”
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About South Carolina State University
Founded in 1896 as South Carolina’s only public historically Black land-grant institution, South Carolina State University has grown from a teachers’ college into a comprehensive hub for education and research. Located in Orangeburg, S.C., SC State offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs and is the only Research 2 (R2) university in South Carolina. SC State is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and is a member of the Council of Graduate Schools.
