ORANGEBURG, S.C. — A violent incident on the campus of South Carolina State University left two young men dead and a third critically injured late Thursday night, prompting concerns over student safety and campus security protocols. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes as gunfire erupted at the Hugine Suites dormitory, a location previously marred by similar violence.
Freshman Jasmine Brihm recounted hearing the frantic cries for help, with students immediately aware of the seriousness of the situation. “Everybody was screaming,” she said. “I heard one boy asking for help.” The incident has raised alarms among students about the effectiveness of security measures in place at the university.
The Orangeburg County Coroner identified the victims as Henry Crittington, 19, and Terrell Thomas, 18, both residents of the area but not affiliated with the university. A third individual, who is a student, sustained injuries, although his name has not been disclosed.
Students expressed unease regarding safety at the dormitory, particularly given that this shooting marks the second such incident at the Hugine Suites within six months. A student who asked to be known only as Destiney criticized the lack of surveillance, stating, “There are no cameras. We need more security in every Hugine Suite.”
Reactions varied among the student body. Some, like freshman Tri’Nyah Seriven, conveyed a grim acceptance of the violence. “It’s sad that it feels normal,” she remarked, drawing a disturbing parallel to her experiences back home. Others echoed similar sentiments about failed security measures. Sophomore Malachi Banks pointed out the inadequacies of current protocols, emphasizing that although IDs are checked, it remains too easy to bring weapons onto campus.
Zeporia Smith, another student, highlighted the role students play in fostering a safe environment. “We also need to take accountability,” she urged, advocating for students to discourage peers from bringing firearms to campus.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division is actively investigating the incident, although no arrests have been made as of now. The university administration faces growing pressure to enhance security measures and ensure that students feel safe on campus.
Concerns about campus safety have deeply affected the student community, sparking conversations about both preventive measures and personal responsibility. As the university community copes with the aftermath of the shooting, a call for action on security reform is becoming increasingly urgent.