In Loving Memory of Jaliyah Butler — A Life Gone Too Soon
What began as a night filled with joy, laughter, and celebration at South Carolina State University’s Homecoming ended in tragedy and heartbreak. The festivities — a time-honored tradition filled with parades, tailgating, and the pride of a Bulldog victory — turned into a scene of chaos and sorrow when gunfire erupted in the crowd, claiming the precious life of Jaliyah Butler and injuring another individual.
Jaliyah, who was not a student at SC State, was a visiting guest attending the homecoming activities with friends. Like so many others that night, she came to enjoy the sense of community, togetherness, and celebration that homecoming represents. No one could have imagined that a night meant for unity and school pride would end in such devastating loss.
According to authorities, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) announced earlier today the arrest of 18-year-old Matthew Daniel McCoy, in connection with the deadly shooting. McCoy has been charged with Pointing and Presenting a Firearm at a Person and Carrying a Weapon on School Property.
Arrest warrants reveal that McCoy allegedly had a loaded Glock handgun in his vehicle, which was parked on the SCSU campus. Investigators say that after witnessing a fight between two groups, McCoy retrieved the weapon and fired two shots toward the crowd, setting off panic and terror among hundreds of attendees. Tragically, one of those bullets struck and killed Jaliyah Butler, an innocent bystander whose life was cut short in a senseless act of violence.
The incident has left the SC State University family, the Orangeburg community, and Jaliyah’s loved ones devastated. What should have been a night of joy and celebration has become yet another painful reminder of how quickly gun violence can shatter lives, families, and communities.
Friends and family describe Jaliyah as a radiant young woman — full of life, compassion, and laughter. She had a vibrant spirit that touched everyone she met. Known for her kindness, humility, and joyful nature, Jaliyah brought light wherever she went. Her family and friends are now left grappling with unimaginable grief, struggling to understand how such a bright soul could be taken away in an instant.
In the wake of this tragedy, community members, students, and leaders have come together to mourn and to demand change. Vigils and prayer gatherings are being planned in Jaliyah’s honor, as people from across South Carolina unite to remember her life and stand against the senseless violence that continues to claim young lives.
The loss of Jaliyah Butler is not just a tragedy for her family — it is a tragedy for all who believe in the sanctity of life, safety, and peace. Her death serves as a heartbreaking reminder that joy can turn to sorrow in a moment, and that our collective responsibility to protect one another has never been more urgent.
As investigators continue their work and justice is sought, the focus remains on remembering Jaliyah for who she was — a beautiful soul, a beloved friend, and a cherished daughter. Though her time on earth was far too short, her impact will never be forgotten.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Butler family, the South Carolina State University community, and all those who are grieving the loss of Jaliyah Butler. May her memory live on as a light that reminds us all of the need for compassion, peace, and an end to the violence that steals so many precious lives.
May her soul rest in eternal peace, and may her loved ones find comfort and strength in the love and support that surrounds them during this unimaginable time.
