Mississippi HBCU homecoming marred by shootings; Child injured, woman killed

The homecoming of two Mississippi HBCUs was rocked by gunfights, with one child shot.

Alcorn State and Jackson State University both had individual incidents of gunfire during their respective homecoming festivities. According to HBCU game daythe gunfight surrounding the Alcorn community took place on the night of October 11th near a gas station. One woman died during the shooting, two others were hospitalized.

The scene prompted the university to call for a shelter-in-place on campus while an investigation into the shooting was underway. About 70 miles away, Jackson State had its own incident of gun violence that affected a child.

The HBCU shooting took place at a tailgate around Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. The child was taken to a local hospital by police, with no current updates available on their welfare. Police have not yet identified a suspect in the shooting.

The sheriff of Hinds County, where Jackson State is located, released a statement about the shooting. Sheriff Tyree Jones encourages anyone with information to contact authorities.

Homecoming gun violence has become a growing concern for HBCUs in recent years. Significant gun battles have even resulted in the complete cancellation of the celebrated tradition, such as one event at Morgan State in 2023. In light of past gun violence, the Baltimore school has increased security measures by closing the campus early during this year’s festivities.

Outside of Mississippi, another HBCU is suffering from gun violence that overshadows its homecoming. The state of South Carolina recently suffered the loss of a student, 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler, during its annual celebration. All schools and local police continue to investigate the shootings that have shocked their communities.

As many schools face the rising threat of gun violence, they remain vigilant in providing safety and security to the thousands who come to their campuses during homecoming season.

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