October 10, 2025

Reward Offered for Information on SCSU Shootings

Orangeburg, South Carolina, October 10, 2025

News Summary

A $10,000 reward is available for tips leading to the arrest of those involved in two shootings at South Carolina State University during homecoming weekend. A student was killed, and another was injured, prompting increased safety measures on campus. Authorities arrested several suspects connected to the incidents, and the FBI has urged anyone with information to come forward to ensure justice is served. A community safety hub will also be established to enhance support and security for students.

Orangeburg, South Carolina

A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of suspects involved in two shootings at South Carolina State University (SCSU). The reward was announced by University President Alexander Conyers on Thursday afternoon, following a tragic incident that occurred during homecoming weekend, which left one dead and another injured.

A community safety hub will be established in the Hugine Suites student apartment complex, staffed 24/7 by university public safety officers. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is appealing to anyone with information regarding the shootings to submit tips online at tips.fbi.gov/digitalmedia/05331e4cfce4128.

On October 4, the SCSU Department of Public Safety made seven weapon-related arrests and seized 11 firearms in connection with ongoing investigations. The shootings resulted in the death of 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler from Saluda, South Carolina, while another male victim was injured at Poplar Hall. The identity of the injured male has not been disclosed.

Details on Arrested Suspects

According to arrest warrants, several suspects were charged with carrying weapons on school property:

Edward Jaewon Leonard Green (19) of Beaufort: Found with a stolen 9mm semi-automatic gun; arrested at Hugine Suites.
Stephen S. Willingham (20) of Winnsboro: Arrested with a firearm and marijuana in the Hugine Suites courtyard; remains in custody.
Zy’Aire Jamaziee Charles (23) of Dillon: Found with three firearms in a backpack on campus; has been released on bond.
Robert Allen Walker (24) of Georgetown: Found with a Glock .45 in a backpack; has been released on bond.
Ny’Isaiah Jermiah Emanuel Myers (18) of Georgetown: Arrested with three guns and marijuana; remains in custody.
Jahveir Hill (21) of Holly Hill: Arrested with a 9mm in the parking lot of Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center; remains in custody.
Chris Allen Grate Jr. (23) of Georgetown: Found with a .45 pistol and has been released on bond.

Additionally, Matthew McCoy (18) was charged with pointing a firearm and carrying a weapon on school property after shooting toward an unidentified male during a dispute. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has confirmed that the shootings are not believed to be related at this time.

University Response and Safety Measures

In response to the incidents, the university has implemented increased safety measures, including controlled entry points for events and enhanced emergency communication protocols. The campus was placed on lockdown from Sunday afternoon, and classes on Monday were canceled to ensure student safety. SCSU is also offering counseling services for those affected by the shootings.

About South Carolina State University

South Carolina State University is a historically Black university located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, approximately 40 miles from Columbia. The recent violence has raised concerns about safety within the university community.

The FBI’s tip line is a critical resource for gathering information; community members are encouraged to utilize this opportunity to assist in ensuring justice is served.

Key Facts Chart

Fact	Details
Reward Amount	$10,000
Victims	Jaliyah Butler (deceased), unidentified male (injured)
Date of Incident	During homecoming weekend, October 2023
Total Arrests	Seven individuals on various charges
Location	South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC
Established Safety Hub	Hugine Suites apartment complex

FAQ Section

What reward is being offered for information about the shootings?

A $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of suspects involved in two shootings at South Carolina State University (SCSU).

What happened during the homecoming weekend at South Carolina State University?

The shootings resulted in the death of 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler from Saluda, and another male victim was injured at Poplar Hall. The identity of the injured male has not been disclosed.

What safety measures are being implemented at SCSU?

The university has implemented increased safety measures, including controlled entry points for events and enhanced emergency communication protocols, and established a community safety hub in the Hugine Suites.

How can individuals report information to the FBI?

The FBI is requesting anyone with information about the shootings to submit tips at tips.fbi.gov/digitalmedia/05331e4cfce4128.

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Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

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