South Carolina State University, October 11, 2025
News Summary
Jaliyah Butler, a 19-year-old student at South Carolina State University, was shot and killed during homecoming festivities. Her family is mourning the loss, while community members are urged to come forward with information. The incident spurred discussions on campus safety, prompting heightened security measures. An arrest has been made in connection with the case, and a reward is being offered for further information as investigations continue.
Orangeburg, South Carolina — Jaliyah Butler, a 19-year-old from Greenwood, South Carolina, was shot and killed during homecoming festivities at South Carolina State University on Saturday. As her family prepares for her funeral, they are grappling with the profound grief of losing a beloved daughter and granddaughter.
Butler’s grandmother described her as a sweet and quiet young lady who enjoyed helping others. According to family accounts, Butler was reportedly trying to protect her friends when she was wounded, sustaining injuries to her arm and chest. In the aftermath of this tragic event, her grandmother expressed feelings of anger and self-blame, believing she had failed to protect her granddaughter.
In light of Butler’s death, her grandmother has urged the community to provide any information regarding the shooting, emphasizing the importance of coming forward. She stressed that anyone with knowledge should speak out and assist in the investigation.
Butler will be laid to rest on Saturday in Saluda, South Carolina. The funeral arrangements come after the traumatic event sent shockwaves through the SC State University community. The shooting resulted in a separate incident on campus that left another man injured, prompting a lockdown at the university as a precautionary measure.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is currently investigating both shootings, which, as of now, do not appear to be related. An arrest has been made related to the shootings; 18-year-old Matthew Daniel McCoy faces charges of pointing and presenting a firearm, as well as carrying a weapon on school property.
The tragic events led to the cancellation of the SC State University Homecoming concert scheduled for the night of the shooting. SC State University President Alexander Conyers extended condolences to the victims and their families, reinforcing the significance of campus safety in light of recent events.
In a heartfelt message, Jaliyah’s mother confirmed the tragic news on Facebook, expressing her heartbreak over the loss of her daughter. Aniya Jones, a close friend of Butler, also shared an emotional tribute on social media, remembering Jaliyah as a lifelong friend and highlighting the impact she had on those around her.
To support the ongoing investigation, the SC State University community and local authorities have urged anyone with knowledge of the events to reach out to law enforcement. A reward of $10,000 has been announced for information leading to arrests and convictions in connection with the shootings.
Incident Overview
- Victim: Jaliyah Butler, 19 years old
- Date of shooting: Saturday during homecoming festivities
- Location: South Carolina State University
- Charges against suspect: Pointing/presenting a firearm, carrying a weapon on school property
- Reward for information: $10,000
- Funeral service: Scheduled for Saturday in Saluda, South Carolina
- Community support: Urged to provide information regarding the shooting
Background
The incident at South Carolina State University has intensified discussions regarding campus safety and the need for community vigilance. College campuses across the nation are grappling with similar concerns, making events like these increasingly relevant in broader discussions about student safety. The community mourns the loss of a young life, while local authorities work diligently to find answers and bring justice to those affected by this tragedy.
FAQ
Who was Jaliyah Butler?
Jaliyah Butler was a 19-year-old from Greenwood, South Carolina, who was shot and killed during homecoming festivities at South Carolina State University.
When did the shooting occur?
The shooting occurred on Saturday during homecoming festivities.
What charges have been filed in relation to the shooting?
Matthew Daniel McCoy, 18, has been charged with pointing and presenting a firearm and carrying a weapon on school property.
Is there a reward for information about the shooting?
Yes, a reward of $10,000 has been offered for information leading to arrests and convictions related to the shootings.
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Additional Resources
- WIS News
- Wikipedia: Shooting in South Carolina State University
- Fox Carolina
- Google Search: Greenwood Shooting Charges
- WSPA News
- Google Scholar: Shooting Safety in Universities
- Index Journal
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Violence in Schools
- Hindustan Times
- Google News: Campus Shooting Safety
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