ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WIS) — An 18-year-old man arrested in connection with shootings at South Carolina State University (SCSU) has been released on bond, as authorities continue to investigate two separate incidents that occurred during the university’s homecoming weekend.
The Orangeburg County Detention Center confirmed that Matthew McCoy, of Blythewood, was released on an $87,000 bond. McCoy was charged with pointing and presenting a firearm at a person and carrying a weapon on school property.
According to arrest warrants issued by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), McCoy had a loaded Glock handgun inside his vehicle, which was parked on the SCSU campus last Saturday. Investigators say McCoy witnessed a fight between two groups, retrieved the gun from his vehicle, and fired two shots toward an unidentified man wearing a black and red hoodie.
Authorities emphasized that McCoy’s arrest is linked to one of two unrelated shootings that occurred the same night.
One of those shootings, at Poplar Hall, left a man critically injured. The victim was not affiliated with the university. The other incident, across campus at Hugine Suites, tragically claimed the life of 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler of Saluda, who was visiting the campus for homecoming festivities.
The violence has left students, parents, and the university community deeply shaken.
“It was shocking — and I’m sure it’s shocking to all the parents,” said Andre Johnson, a concerned parent.
“We actually stay here, so that was kinda crazy for us,” added Jonadrian McDaniel, a student living on campus.
Parents and students say the lack of clear answers has heightened their anxiety.
“It’s very concerning that there are a lot of questions and not a lot of answers,” said Darnell Johnson, another parent.
SLED officials confirmed that the investigation remains active as they continue searching for the individuals responsible for both shootings.
University officials stated that approximately 200 officers were stationed across the campus during homecoming weekend. SC State President Alexander Conyers said two officers were responding to a separate altercation when gunfire erupted near Hugine Suites, where Butler was killed.
With no suspects yet identified, many students say they continue to feel uneasy.
“No,” said Cameron Williams, when asked if he feels safe on campus.
“I just stay in my dorm room all the time now because it’s really scary,” said Tyquisha Steplight, another student. “It could happen at any time. You never know.”
SLED is urging anyone with information to contact its tip line.
Campus officials announced that classes will resume Wednesday, and midterm exams, originally scheduled for this week, have been postponed to October 18–22.
President Conyers confirmed that Butler, McCoy, and the second gunshot victim are not enrolled students at South Carolina State University.
