The Orangeburg County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Jaliyah Butler, of Saluda, South Carolina, was pronounced dead at MUSC Health Orangeburg Hospital following one of two shootings that occurred on campus late Saturday, October 4.
Coroner Sean Fogle expressed condolences to the victims and their families, saying, “My heart goes out to all the victims of this unfortunate event and to their families, the South Carolina State University family and the Orangeburg County community. Continue to pray for these individuals and our county that we may heal and recover from this tragic event.”
The first shooting took place near Hugine Suites student housing, prompting university officials to issue an emergency alert and place the campus on lockdown.
Imagine being 18 and excited to attend college. You attend your school’s homecoming to have a great time and unfortunately there’s an active shooter on campus and you don’t make it to see tomorrow. RIP beautiful Jaliyah Butler. #justiceforjaliyahbutler #SCStateUniversity pic.twitter.com/uQy4IUXcCd
— Tamorah Shareef Muhammad (@ModestyQueen19) October 6, 2025
Who Was Jaliyah Butler?
According to her Facebook profile, Jaliyah Butler lived in Greenwood, South Carolina. Her mother, Heather Weaver, confirmed her daughter’s death in an emotional Facebook post, writing: “Yes, it’s true my baby Jaliyah Butler is gone! Please don’t call or message me if you isn’t direct family! Thanks! Keep my family in your prayers, please!”
In another heartbreaking post, Weaver added, “To know I’ll never get to hear my baby Jaliyah Butler to tell me she love me again! I just can’t stomach that! Baby girl I wish this was a dream.”
Friends and classmates also paid tribute online. Butler’s close friend Aniya Jones wrote, “My feelings are really hurt like I can’t close my eyes without crying… you will never be forgotten baby.”
Second Shooting and Investigation
Authorities reported that a separate shooting occurred nearby the same night, leaving one man injured. Investigators from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) said the two incidents do not appear to be related.
Neither of the victims, including Jaliyah Butler, were enrolled students at South Carolina State University.
One arrest has been made in connection with the investigation. Matthew Daniel McCoy, 18, has been charged with pointing and presenting a firearm at a person and carrying a weapon on school property, according to SLED. It remains unclear which shooting McCoy is linked to.
University Responds After Tragic Shooting
The shootings occurred during South Carolina State University’s annual Homecoming celebration. The event’s Homecoming concert, scheduled for Saturday night, was cancelled in response to the tragedy.
University President Alexander Conyers issued a statement expressing sympathy and reaffirming the school’s commitment to student safety: “We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the young woman who lost her life and to all who have been affected. We are cooperating fully with law enforcement as they investigate these senseless acts of violence. The safety and well-being of our students, employees, and guests remain our top priority.”
Ongoing Investigation
As of now, SLED continues to investigate both shootings. Authorities have not yet confirmed the motive or identified any additional suspects.
The death of Jaliyah Butler has shaken the South Carolina State University community, with many calling for stronger campus security and an end to gun violence in college settings.
