The Lincoln University homecoming shooting left the HBCU community in mourning after a night of celebration turned into tragedy. The incident happened Saturday, October 25, when gunfire erupted during the university’s annual homecoming festivities in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Lincoln University, known as the nation’s first degree-granting HBCU, had gathered hundreds of students, alumni, and supporters for its weekend of events when violence shattered the spirit of unity and pride that defines homecoming season across HBCUs.
Celebration Turns to Chaos at Lincoln University
What began as a joyful evening outside the International Cultural Center on Lincoln’s campus quickly descended into panic. Around 9:30 p.m., multiple gunshots were fired near the crowd gathered for the homecoming tailgate and Yardfest celebration. Witnesses described the scene as “chaotic,” with attendees fleeing in every direction as law enforcement rushed to the area. According to reports from CBS News, Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe confirmed that “people fled in every direction” as officers attempted to restore order.
Victims Identified and Community in Shock
Authorities confirmed that 25-year-old Jujuan Jeffers of Wilmington, Delaware, was fatally shot in the head and pronounced dead shortly after midnight. Six others between the ages of 20 and 25 suffered injuries and were taken to local hospitals for treatment. While one current Lincoln student and one alumnus were among those hurt, officials noted that not all victims had ties to the school. The university released a statement extending condolences to the victim’s family and reaffirmed its commitment to campus safety. According to ABC News, one person, 24-year-old Zecqueous Morgan-Thompson, was arrested and charged with carrying a concealed firearm without a license, though police have not confirmed if his weapon was used in the shooting.
Investigation and Ongoing Search for Answers
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the FBI have joined forces to investigate the Lincoln University homecoming shooting. Law enforcement officials believe more than one person may have fired shots and are urging anyone with videos or photos to share them with investigators. While there’s no evidence the shooting was a premeditated attack on the university, the tragedy has raised serious questions about security during large-scale campus events. “We are operating under the belief that the shooter or shooters in this case did not come here with the specific design to cause mass damage on a college campus,” said de Barrena-Sarobe. As 6ABC reported, the FBI is collecting digital evidence and canvassing the area for clues that could identify all individuals involved.
HBCU Community Responds With Solidarity
The Lincoln University homecoming shooting has sent shockwaves across the HBCU world, prompting conversations about how schools can preserve the safety and joy of events deeply rooted in Black culture. Lincoln University, founded in 1854, holds a special place in HBCU history as the first to grant degrees to Black students. The institution declared Monday a “day of healing and reflection,” offering counseling services and urging students, alumni, and staff to gather in the Historic District for unity and remembrance. Similar to recent acts of violence at other campuses, such as incidents near Florida A&M University and Southern University, this tragedy has reignited national discussions about gun safety and mental health within higher education.
Moving Forward After the Tragedy
As Lincoln University mourns the loss of life, the institution and surrounding community are demanding accountability. University President Brenda A. Allen called for prayers and patience as investigators work to bring justice to those responsible. “We will continue to provide support to our students and take every measure necessary to ensure safety on our campus,” she stated. The Lincoln University homecoming shooting has not only scarred one historic institution but also reminded the broader HBCU family of the urgent need for collective healing and systemic change. While homecoming is traditionally a season of joy and reunion, this event underscores the fragility of those moments — and the strength required to rebuild them.
Lincoln University remains committed to its mission of education, empowerment, and community, even in the face of tragedy. The HBCU community nationwide stands in solidarity, vowing to honor the victims by pushing for safer, more protected spaces where Black excellence can continue to thrive.