SC State University Lockdown: Shots Fired Near Campus Housing, Homecoming Concert Canceled
ORANGEBURG, SOUTH CAROLINA — A night meant for celebration at South Carolina State University quickly turned chaotic Saturday after shots were fired near on-campus housing, prompting an immediate lockdown and cancellation of the university’s Homecoming concert.
Lockdown Issued After Gunfire Near Hugine Suites
University officials confirmed that shots were fired near Hugine Suites, a residential area on campus, just after 10:30 p.m. Saturday.
Campus police immediately issued an emergency alert, ordering all students and staff to shelter in place while authorities searched for a possible suspect.
“The campus is on lockdown,” the university stated in a campus-wide alert. “Remain inside your residence halls and do not attempt to enter or leave the campus until further notice.”
SLED Called to Assist Campus Police
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has joined campus police in investigating the incident. Officials have not yet confirmed whether anyone was struck by gunfire or if a suspect has been identified.
“Campus police are currently investigating, and SLED has been asked to assist,” university officials said in a late-night update.
Homecoming Concert Canceled
The lockdown came just hours before the university’s Homecoming concert, which was set to draw hundreds of students and alumni.
Officials announced that the event was canceled immediately out of safety concerns and warned the public not to attempt to enter the campus until authorities declared the area secure.
“Please do not attempt to enter the university,” officials urged. “Campus police will provide further instructions once the lockdown is lifted.”
Students Told to Stay Indoors
Students living on campus were told to remain in their rooms, while those off campus were advised to stay away from the area.
Emergency sirens and alerts were broadcast across the campus, and residents near the university reported seeing heavy law enforcement presence along Magnolia Street and Chestnut Street, near the Hugine Suites complex.
“It’s really scary,” said one student who lives in the residence hall next door. “We just got a message saying lockdown. Nobody knew what was happening. Everyone’s texting each other to make sure they’re okay.”
Investigation Ongoing
As of early Sunday morning, details remain limited. Authorities have not confirmed if any injuries occurred or what led to the gunfire. The university remains under lockdown while investigators continue processing the scene.
The Saluda Standard-Sentinel will update this story as more information becomes available from SLED and university officials.
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