Bloodshed at Homecoming: A Weekend of Violence Rocks HBCU Campuses Across the South

What should have been a weekend of unity, culture, and celebration at several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) turned tragic as gun violence erupted across multiple campuses and surrounding areas. From Alabama to Mississippi to South Carolina, a series of shootings during homecoming and classic football events have left several people dead, dozens injured, and countless others shaken.

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Tragedy in Montgomery: Tuskegee–Morehouse Classic Turns Deadly

A night meant to honor HBCU heritage and community pride turned into chaos late Saturday in downtown Montgomery, Alabama, when gunfire broke out near the intersection of Bibb Street and Commerce Street. The area was packed with thousands celebrating the Tuskegee University vs. Morehouse College Classic, the Alabama National Fair, and multiple homecoming festivities.

According to Montgomery Police, the shooting—reported around 11:30 p.m.—appears to have started as a targeted attack before spiraling into a broader gunfight as others in the crowd drew weapons. Witnesses described a terrifying scene as dozens of shots rang out, sending people fleeing for safety.

Authorities confirmed the deaths of 17-year-old Jeremiah Morris and 43-year-old Shalanda Williams. More than a dozen others were injured, including seven individuals under the age of 20. Three victims remain in critical condition, and at least two juveniles are among the wounded. Police recovered several firearms at the scene, some equipped with high-capacity magazines.

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South Carolina State University: Two Separate Shootings in One Night

Just a week earlier, on October 4, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) launched an investigation after two separate shootings occurred on the campus of South Carolina State University (SCSU) in Orangeburg.

In the first incident, a woman was killed, while in the second, a man was injured and rushed to the hospital. Both shootings took place during the school’s homecoming weekend, adding to growing concern about violence at HBCU celebrations this fall.

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Mississippi Campuses See Back-to-Back Shootings

This past Saturday, October 11, two Mississippi HBCUs—Jackson State University and Alcorn State University—were rocked by separate acts of gun violence.

At Jackson State University, a shooting broke out near the tailgate area outside Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium on West Street during the school’s homecoming game. According to Hinds County Sheriff and Interim Jackson Police Chief Tyree Jones, a child was shot in the abdomen and rushed to University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) by police officers in a patrol vehicle. The Mississippi Department of Public Safety confirmed the injury, and law enforcement urged all attendees to clear the area immediately as they secured the scene.

Later that evening, tragedy struck Alcorn State University. Around 6:30 p.m., shots were fired near the Industrial Technology Building, killing 29-year-old Brekyra Fisher of Vicksburg and injuring two others. The campus was placed on lockdown, and students were ordered to shelter in place until the all-clear was given. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) has since taken over the case.

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Communities in Mourning and Calls for Action

The string of violent incidents has sparked concern among HBCU leaders, students, and alumni across the country. Homecoming season—a cherished time for reflection, fellowship, and cultural pride—has been overshadowed by senseless gunfire.

Many are now calling for increased security measures at large campus events and greater collaboration between university police and local law enforcement agencies. Others emphasize the need for deeper community intervention to prevent future tragedies.

As investigations continue in Montgomery, Orangeburg, Jackson, and Lorman, one message rings clear: the violence that has marred these sacred celebrations does not reflect the spirit of HBCUs or the legacy they stand for.