A Saturday night shooting on the campus of Albany State University (ASU) in Georgia left one person dead and several others injured during what was meant to be a celebratory Homecoming Weekend. The incident has left the community reeling and prompted a widespread investigation led by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI).
The shooting occurred around 8:50 p.m. near a concert venue on the university’s east campus, a central spot for Homecoming celebrations. Authorities have confirmed that six people were injured, and 19-year-old De’Marion Tashawn Daniels from Atlanta was killed. Daniels was not a student at ASU but was attending the event.
Among the injured are three victims who sustained gunshot wounds: a 13-year-old girl from Albany, a 17-year-old high school student, and a 16-year-old high school student. Additionally, a 20-year-old woman was grazed by a bullet, and a 19-year-old girl was hurt while trying to flee the chaotic scene.
The GBI, assisted by local law enforcement, is leading the investigation into the incident, which has left many unanswered questions. No arrests have been made, and authorities have yet to release details about potential suspects or motives. Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue to piece together what happened.
In a statement released following the incident, ASU’s interim president, Lawrence M. Drake II, expressed his sorrow and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to campus safety. “The Albany State University family is deeply saddened to learn of an incident that took place on campus… As always, the safety and security of our ASU students, faculty, and staff are the number one priority of this institution,” said Drake.
The university has made counseling and support services available to students, faculty, and staff affected by the tragedy. “We are providing resources for the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of our campus community,” added Drake.
Homecoming is typically a joyous occasion at ASU, bringing together students, alumni, and the community for a weekend of celebrations, concerts, and events. However, the violence on Saturday night turned the festive atmosphere into one of fear and sorrow. Witnesses described a scene of chaos, with people fleeing in all directions as shots rang out near the crowded concert area.
“It’s heartbreaking. We were here to have fun and celebrate our school, and now we’re just left with this terrible feeling,” said a student who attended the event.
This tragic shooting at ASU occurred on the same weekend as another incident at Tennessee State University (TSU), where gunfire erupted during their Homecoming celebrations, resulting in one death and nine injuries. Although both incidents happened around the same time, authorities have not indicated any connection between them. The incident at TSU stemmed from an altercation between two groups near campus, according to Metro Nashville Police.
As the investigation continues, the ASU community is left grappling with grief and uncertainty. The university has called for calm and cooperation with authorities as they work to find those responsible. In the meantime, the tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the need for increased safety measures during large public events, especially on college campuses.
The GBI has urged witnesses and anyone with information about the shooting to come forward, stressing the importance of community support in solving the case. Meanwhile, ASU’s focus remains on supporting those affected by this tragedy and ensuring the safety of its campus community moving forward.
Homecoming at ASU was meant to be a time of celebration, but it will now be remembered for this tragic loss. The investigation remains active, and the university community continues to mourn as they wait for answers and justice.
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