Orangeburg, S.C. – State investigators with the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) announced on October 5, 2026 that the search for the individual who killed 19‑year‑old student Jaliyah Butler continues. The investigation, launched after the October 4, 2025 Homecoming shooting at South Carolina State University (SCSU), has not yet identified a suspect directly linked to Butler’s death.
Background of the October 2025 incidents
During the university’s Homecoming weekend in 2025, two separate shootings occurred on campus. The first incident left a female victim dead; the second resulted in a male victim who was hospitalized. SLED was called in at the request of SCSU’s Department of Public Safety and confirmed that the two incidents were being treated as distinct investigations.
Jaliyah Butler was later identified as the victim of the fatal shooting. The university placed the campus on lockdown that evening, and a large law‑enforcement response was deployed.
Current investigation status
According to the latest SLED update, several individuals have been charged with unlawful possession of firearms on or near the campus around the time of the shooting. While those arrests demonstrate that illegal weapons were present, they have not led investigators to the person they believe is directly responsible for Butler’s death.
“However, the person responsible for Jaliyah Butler’s death has not been identified at this time,” the agency said in its statement. SLED did not disclose the names of those arrested for firearm possession, nor did it provide additional details about those cases.
Call for public assistance
SLED is urging anyone with information about the October 2025 shootings to contact investigators at 866‑472‑8477 or via email at [email protected]. The agency emphasized that tips, even seemingly minor ones, could prove critical in solving the case.
Impact on the campus community
The unresolved homicide continues to weigh heavily on students, faculty, and families connected to SCSU. Local leaders have expressed concern for campus safety and have called for continued vigilance and cooperation with law‑enforcement efforts.
University officials reiterated their commitment to providing a safe learning environment and said they will keep the campus community informed as new information becomes available.
Looking ahead
FITSNews will monitor the investigation and provide updates as SLED releases further details. The agency’s ongoing efforts underscore the importance of community cooperation in addressing violent crime and ensuring justice for victims like Jaliyah Butler.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
