Family Sues Lincoln University After Homecoming Shooting Death

Lawsuit alleges HBCU failed to maintain adequate security and respond to warnings before deadly incident.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The family of a 20-year-old man fatally shot during a homecoming event at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania has filed a lawsuit against the historically Black university, alleging the school's failure to maintain adequate security and promptly respond to warnings of potential violence contributed to his death.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about campus safety and security at HBCUs, which have faced a number of high-profile violent incidents in recent years. The lawsuit also raises questions about how universities respond to public safety warnings from local authorities.

The details

According to the complaint, Lincoln University failed to implement adequate security measures, increase staffing, and improve campus policies despite prior knowledge of safety concerns tied to large events. The lawsuit alleges officials in Lower Oxford Township had previously warned the university about crowd control and parking issues that prevented emergency responders from accessing the campus, but the university declined their assistance.

  • The shooting occurred on October 25, 2025 during Lincoln University's homecoming festivities.
  • The family filed the lawsuit in Philadelphia's Court of Common Pleas on March 5, 2026.

The players

Ju'Juan Jeffers

A 20-year-old man who was fatally shot during the homecoming event at Lincoln University.

Michael T. van der Veen

The attorney representing Jeffers' family in the lawsuit against Lincoln University.

Lincoln University of Pennsylvania

A historically Black university where the fatal shooting occurred during a homecoming event.

Lower Oxford Township

A local authority that had previously warned Lincoln University about public safety concerns related to large events on campus.

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What they’re saying

“The lawsuit seeks justice for Ju'Juan Jeffers while advocating for stronger security measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.”

— Michael T. van der Veen, Attorney for Jeffers' family

What’s next

The judge will determine if the lawsuit against Lincoln University can proceed and whether the university will face punitive damages.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the ongoing challenges HBCUs face in ensuring campus safety, even as they strive to provide a welcoming environment for their students. The lawsuit underscores the need for universities to be proactive in addressing public safety concerns and working closely with local authorities to implement effective security measures.