ORANGEBURG, S.C. — The Claflin University community is mourning the sudden loss of 21-year-old Savion Brown, a senior computer science major from Charlotte, North Carolina, who collapsed and later died after a medical emergency at the university gym on Sunday, October 26, 2025.
According to school officials, Brown was playing basketball with other students at the on-campus recreation center when he suddenly collapsed. Emergency personnel were called immediately, and responders performed life-saving measures before transporting him to MUSC Health Orangeburg. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced deceased shortly after arrival.
The Orangeburg County Coroner’s Office confirmed Brown’s identity and stated that an autopsy will be conducted later this week to determine the cause of his collapse. Authorities have not released details regarding any underlying medical issues, and no foul play is suspected at this time.
Claflin University released a statement expressing profound sadness over Brown’s passing, describing him as a dedicated student and beloved member of the campus community. “The Claflin family is heartbroken,” one administrator said. “Savion was a bright young man with a promising future ahead of him. We ask everyone to keep his loved ones and friends in their thoughts during this difficult time.”
In response, the university has made grief counseling and emotional support available to students and staff through TimelyCare, a 24/7 telehealth service for college students. Faculty members have also been encouraged to show compassion and flexibility toward students affected by the tragedy. University leaders urged anyone struggling with grief to seek help, emphasizing the importance of community and connection during such difficult times.
Friends and classmates have since taken to social media to remember Brown as kind, motivated, and always willing to help others. “He was the type of person who could make anyone laugh and push others to do their best,” one student wrote. Plans for a campus memorial service are being discussed in coordination with Brown’s family. As the investigation continues, the Claflin community stands united in grief, honoring the memory of a promising student whose life was cut tragically short.