Sophomore Student Fatally Shot After Entering Wrong Home Near University of South Carolina
In a tragic incident early Saturday morning, a sophomore student from the University of South Carolina was shot and killed when he mistakenly entered the wrong home in a neighborhood near the university. Nicholas Anthony Donofrio, a 20-year-old Connecticut native, was found dead on the front porch of an off-campus house by Columbia police officers who responded to a reported home burglary.
According to the Columbia Police Department, preliminary information suggests that Donofrio, who lived on the same street as the house he entered, attempted to enter the wrong home and was fatally shot. The incident occurred less than 2 miles from the university’s main campus. Officers received a call about the break-in around 2 a.m., but before they could arrive at the scene, a second call reported gunshots.
The Richland County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Donofrio died from a gunshot wound to the upper body. The identity of the shooter has not been disclosed by the police, and it remains unclear whether any charges have been filed at this time. The investigation is ongoing, and the Columbia Police Department will be collaborating with the Fifth Circuit Solicitor’s Office to determine the circumstances surrounding the case.
The tragic incident has left the university community in shock as it coincided with the first day of classes for the fall semester. The University of South Carolina expressed its condolences and stated that their Student Affairs team is providing resources and support to those affected by the tragedy. The university also emphasized the availability of help and support for all students during difficult times.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring personal safety and being vigilant when entering unfamiliar premises. Authorities have advised individuals to double-check the address and take necessary precautions to avoid such unfortunate incidents.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of Nicholas Anthony Donofrio, a promising student whose life was tragically cut short. The incident has sparked discussions about campus safety and the need for increased awareness and security measures in the vicinity of university campuses.
The University of South Carolina and local law enforcement agencies are working together to address any concerns and provide a safe environment for students. In the wake of this incident, it is crucial for students and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
As the community mourns the loss of a young life, the focus now shifts to finding answers and ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future. The tragic death of Nicholas Anthony Donofrio serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued efforts to enhance safety measures and promote a secure environment for students and residents alike.
Original Story at nypost.com – 2023-08-27 07:19:00