Man Charged with Murder After Drug Deal Turns Deadly at SC State University

Police say two people were killed and another injured in a shooting inside a campus dorm room.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An 18-year-old man has been charged with murder after a marijuana deal inside a South Carolina State University dorm room ended in a shooting that left two people dead and another injured. The suspect, Khamanti Lytrel Kennedy, allegedly fled the scene after the Thursday night incident at the Hugine Suites housing complex.

Why it matters

The deadly shooting at a university dorm highlights the risks and dangers associated with illegal drug activity on college campuses. It also raises concerns about campus safety and security, as well as the broader issue of gun violence in the community.

The details

According to an arrest warrant, Khamanti Lytrel Kennedy was involved in a marijuana deal inside the dorm room when the shooting occurred. Kennedy then allegedly fled the scene after the two people were killed and another was injured. Police have charged Kennedy with murder in connection with the incident.

  • The shooting took place on Thursday night inside a dorm room at the Hugine Suites housing complex on the South Carolina State University campus.

The players

Khamanti Lytrel Kennedy

An 18-year-old man who has been charged with murder in connection with the deadly shooting inside the South Carolina State University dorm room.

South Carolina State University

A public historically black university located in Orangeburg, South Carolina.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Police are continuing to investigate the incident and gather more details about the circumstances surrounding the deadly shooting.

The takeaway

This tragic event underscores the need for increased campus security measures and education around the dangers of illegal drug activity, in order to prevent such violence from occurring on college campuses in the future.