Orangeburg, SC, October 10, 2025
News Summary
A shooting during homecoming events at South Carolina State University has resulted in the death of 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler and left another man injured. The FBI is investigating the incident, which is believed to involve two separate shootings. A $10,000 reward has been announced for information leading to an arrest. Enhanced security measures have been implemented on campus in response to the tragedy.
Orangeburg, South Carolina — A weekend shooting at South Carolina State University (SCSU) during homecoming events has left one person dead and another injured. The FBI Columbia Field Office has initiated an investigation into the two shootings, both of which occurred on the same night and are reportedly unrelated. The agency is seeking public assistance and has launched a digital media tips website for anyone with relevant information, urging individuals to upload cellphone videos, photos, or other multimedia related to the incidents at www.fbi.gov/scstateuniversityshootings.
The deceased has been identified as 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler from Saluda. The second incident left another man wounded. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is leading the investigation with support from the FBI for digital media analysis. In light of the violence, SCSU President Alexander Conyers has announced a $10,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
Investigation and Arrests
SLED has arrested 18-year-old Matthew McCoy, charging him with pointing and presenting a firearm and carrying a weapon on school property following the shootings. McCoy allegedly shot at an unidentified male during a fight and was discovered with a loaded Glock handgun in his vehicle. Reports indicate that there had been two separate incidents that night, with SLED noting that several firearms had been seized from individuals arrested just days before the shootings. However, none of those arrests are directly linked to the shootings themselves.
Prior Arrests
Prior to the shooting incidents, several arrests were made, including:
- 19-year-old Edward Jaewon Leonard Green, charged with carrying a stolen firearm.
- 20-year-old Stephen S. Willingham, charged with possession of drugs near school property.
- 23-year-old Zy’Aire Jamaziee Charles and 24-year-old Robert Allen Walker, both charged with possession of firearms on campus.
- 18-year-old Ny’Isaiah Jermiah Emanuel Myers, who was found in possession of multiple firearms and marijuana.
- 21-year-old Jahveir Hill and 23-year-old Chris Allen Grate Jr., who were also found with firearms on campus.
Safety Measures and Campus Response
In response to the incidents, SCSU has heightened security protocols on campus, which now include vehicle checks and ID verifications at entrances. A community safety hub will also be established at the Hugine Suites apartment complex, which will be staffed around the clock by public safety officers. Despite resuming classes on Wednesday, students expressed feelings of unease and anxiety regarding their safety and campus security.
Ongoing Investigation
As the investigation into the shootings continues, SLED is actively seeking tips from witnesses who may have information relevant to the cases. The heightened state of awareness following these events highlights the community’s concerns for safety during school events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the incidents that occurred at South Carolina State University during homecoming weekend?
Both shootings occurred over the weekend during homecoming events, resulting in one death and one injury.
Who was the victim of the shooting?
The victim of the incident was 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler from Saluda, who was killed in one of the shootings.
What steps are being taken to ensure safety on campus?
A community safety hub will be established in the Hugine Suites apartment complex, staffed 24/7 by public safety officers. Increased security measures, such as vehicle checks and ID verifications at entrances, have also been implemented.
What measures is the FBI taking in the investigation?
The FBI Columbia Field Office has launched a digital media tips website for information about the two shootings and is encouraging people to submit relevant video or photographs.
Key Features of the Incidents
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | South Carolina State University |
| Event | Homecoming Weekend |
| Fatalities | 1 (19-year-old Jaliyah Butler) |
| Injuries | 1 (other unidentified male) |
| Arrests | Matthew McCoy and several prior arrests involving firearms |
| Reward for Information | $10,000 offered by University President Alexander Conyers |
| Safety Measures | Community safety hub, increased security checks |
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: 11 guns seized at SC State before weekend shootings
- WYFF: FBI investigates South Carolina State shootings
- WACH: Second teen arrested in South Carolina State University shootings
- Wikipedia: South Carolina State University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina State University
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