by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman
October 12, 2025
HBCUs have been grappling with rising incidences of gun violence throughout homecoming season.
Two Mississippi HBCUs had their homecomings shaken up by shootouts, with one youngster left shot.
Alcorn State and Jackson State College each had particular person situations of gunfire throughout their respective homecoming festivities. In response to HBCU Gameday, the shootout surrounding the Alcorn group occurred the evening of Oct. 11 close to a fuel station. One lady died in the course of the taking pictures, with two others hospitalized.
The scene prompted the College to name for a shelter-in-place on campus, with an investigation into the taking pictures ongoing. Round 72 miles away, Jackson State had its personal incident of gun violence that struck a baby.
The HBCU’s taking pictures occurred at a tailgate surrounding the Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. The kid was taken by police to an area hospital, with no present updates on their wellbeing. Regulation enforcement has but to disclose a suspect within the shootout.
The sheriff of Hinds County, the place Jackson State is positioned, launched a press release on the taking pictures. Sheriff Tyree Jones encourages anybody with info to contact the authorities.
Gun violence at homecomings has develop into a rising concern for HBCUs prior to now few years. Vital shootouts have even resulted within the cancellation of the celebrated custom totally, comparable to one incidence at Morgan State in 2023. In mild of previous gun violence, the Baltimore college heightened safety measures by closing the campus early throughout this 12 months’s festivities.
Exterior of Mississippi, one other HBCU has suffered from gun violence overshadowing its homecoming. South Carolina State lately handled the lack of a pupil, 19-year-old Jaliyah Butler, throughout its annual celebration. All colleges and the native legislation enforcement proceed to analyze the shootouts which have shaken their communities.
As many colleges take care of rising threats of gun violence, they continue to be vigilant in offering security and safety for the 1000’s that flock to their campuses throughout homecoming season.
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