UPDATE: Three men shot; two died in SC State shooting
ORANGEBURG CO., SC (WOLO) -Orangeburg Department of Public Safety Chief Charles Austin says he believes a shooting at South Carolina State University Thursday night was an isolated incident.
Chief Austin released a statement Friday, it reads,
“The City of Orangeburg Department of Public Safety is aware of the shooting incident that occurred last night on SC State University’s campus. We are saddened by the loss of two lives and the injury of another individual. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire university community during this painful time.
The investigation is active and ongoing. Based on preliminary information, this incident is believed to be isolated. We will continue to gather evidence, review information, and work closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure a thorough and complete investigation.
We ask for the community’s patience as this investigation moves forward. We also encourage anyone with information related to this incident to come forward and assist law enforcement. The safety of our residents, students, and visitors remains our highest priority.”
SC State University says a campus lockdown has been lifted following a shooting on campus that left two people dead and one wounded.
According to SLED investigators, at approximately 9:15 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, three men were shot inside an apartment at the Hugine Suites student residential complex.
One man died at the scene, the other man died at the hospital and the other victim was injured.
The Orangeburg County Coroner’s Office has identified the names of the two victims.
Coroner Sean Fogle says the victims are 19-year-old Henry L. Crittington, of Orangeburg, and 18-year-old Terrell Thomas, of Norway.
Friday classes have been canceled and school officials say counselors are available to students.
Orangeburg’s Mayor Michael C. Butler also released a statement following the shooting, it reads,
“Last night our community experienced a tragic act of violence on the campus of South Carolina State University. On behalf of City Council, we are heartbroken to learn that two individuals lost their lives and one person was injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, the students, faculty, and the entire university community during this incredibly difficult time.
Let me be clear: violence has no place in Orangeburg and it does not reflect who we are as a community. Orangeburg is a city rooted in resilience, education, faith, and unity. Moments like this test us, but they also remind us of the importance of standing together.
We ask for patience as authorities continue their investigation and for grace as families process unimaginable loss. Now is a time for compassion, prayer, and solidarity.
To the students of SC State and to every resident of our city — we are with you. We will continue to support our university partners and do everything within our power to promote safety, peace, and healing in our community.
May we surround those affected with love and strength in the days ahead.”
SC State University released a statement saying a student is still hospitalized at this time, and the university cannot release the identity of the student at this time.
The university also went on to state the two deceased men were not students at the school, but were visiting the campus as guests of a student.
Read the full statement below:
“The State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has confirmed two deaths and one injury following the South Carolina State University campus shooting on Thursday evening.
An SC State student remains hospitalized. The university cannot release the identity of the student at this time. His condition has not been provided to the university. The two deceased men are not students but were visiting campus as guests of a student. SLED is leading the investigation and will provide details as available.
Our prayers go out to the victims and their families who were impacted by this incident. The university has lifted the campus lockdown that was implemented last night. At this time, there are no known threats to campus.
Classes have been canceled through Monday, and all weekend activities are canceled. Saturday’s men’s basketball game against Morgan State at the Smith-Middleton-Hamilton Memorial Center has been postponed to Feb.25.
The safety and well-being of all university students, employees and guests are our priority. Students are encouraged to use the counseling services provided by the university on campus.
The university will continue to provide updates as appropriate. All news media inquiries related to the investigation should be directed to SLED.
SLED’s investigation is active and ongoing. More information may be available as the case continues. Anyone with information can provide tips to SLED by emailing tips@sled.sc.gov and/or calling 886-472-8477. ”
