Two young men lost their lives and another was injured in a deadly shooting that unfolded late Thursday night, February 12, 2026, at South Carolina State University in Orangeburg. The incident occurred inside a room at the Hugine Suites student residential complex, located at 300 College Avenue. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire around 9:15 p.m., prompting an immediate lockdown of the campus that lasted until approximately 5 a.m. the following morning.
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) confirmed that three men were shot during the incident. Nineteen-year-old Henry L. Crittington of Orangeburg was pronounced dead at the scene, while 18-year-old Terrell Thomas of Norway, South Carolina, was transported to MUSC Health Orangeburg, where he later died from his injuries. The third victim, whose identity has not been released, was also hospitalized, but his condition remains undisclosed.
The shooting took place within a dorm room at Hugine Suites, a co-ed housing facility on campus. Authorities have not disclosed a motive or whether the individuals involved were students at the university. However, they stated that there is no ongoing threat to the campus community and that no suspects are currently being sought. The investigation remains active, with SLED leading the inquiry in coordination with local law enforcement.
This tragedy marks the second fatal shooting on or near the South Carolina State University campus in less than five months. In October 2025, two separate shootings occurred during homecoming celebrations, one of which claimed the life of a 19-year-old woman. That incident had already prompted the university to implement new safety protocols, including increased security presence and restricted access to residential areas during major events.
The deaths of Crittington and Thomas have sent shockwaves through the university and surrounding communities. Friends and family have described both young men as full of potential, with bright futures ahead. Vigils and memorials are being planned on campus, and university officials have extended counseling services to students and staff affected by the incident. In a statement, Orangeburg County Coroner Sean Fogle expressed condolences to the families and emphasized the community’s collective grief.
As the investigation continues, university officials have canceled classes for Friday and are working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of students and staff. The university community is grappling with the emotional toll of the violence, while authorities work to piece together the events that led to the fatal shooting. The loss of Henry Crittington and Terrell Thomas stands as a painful reminder of the urgent need for continued efforts to address campus safety and prevent future tragedies.
