CHESTER COUNTY, Pa. — What began as a joyous Homecoming celebration at Lincoln University, one of the nation’s oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), ended in heartbreak when gunfire erupted on campus Saturday evening. The shooting, which occurred during a tailgate celebration outside the International Cultural Center, left one person dead and six others injured, turning a night of pride and unity into one of fear and mourning.
Authorities have identified the deceased victim as 25-year-old Jujuan Jeffers of Wilmington, Delaware, who suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Officials confirmed that the six other victims, all between the ages of 20 and 25, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and are expected to recover. Witnesses described a scene of chaos as partygoers fled for safety amid the sound of gunfire and sirens that followed moments later.
In a Sunday afternoon update, officials named 21-year-old Zecqueous Morgan-Thompson as one of the suspects involved. He is currently being held at the Chester County Prison on $25,000 bail, facing a charge of carrying a firearm without a license, according to court records. Authorities noted that there is no indication the suspects intended to commit a mass shooting, suggesting instead that the violence likely stemmed from a dispute or altercation that escalated into deadly gunfire.
Chester County Detectives, with assistance from the FBI, Pennsylvania State Police, and Lincoln University Police, are leading the ongoing investigation. Forensic teams and K-9 units have been deployed to process evidence across the large crime scene, while detectives continue to review extensive surveillance and cellphone video footage. Investigators also believe multiple shooters may have been involved, and they are urging anyone with video evidence or firsthand information to contact 1-800-CALL-FBI.
Lincoln University officials announced that classes will be canceled on Monday, October 27, designating the day as one of “healing and reflection.” Plans are underway for a remembrance event honoring Jujuan Jeffers. University Police Chief Marc Partee expressed deep sorrow during a press conference, saying, “We set this out to be a time to celebrate the legacy of Lincoln University, the first Historically Black HBCU. Devastated — if there was another word more impactful, I would use it, but devastated is a start.”
The Chester County District Attorney’s Office continues to coordinate with local and federal agencies to piece together the sequence of events and identify everyone involved. Authorities have assured the community that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with additional verified updates expected in the coming days. The tragedy has deeply shaken students, alumni, and residents, leaving many searching for answers in the aftermath of a night meant for celebration.