Shooting victim identified as WVSU football player; opening home game postponed

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) – The victim of a shooting in Charleston Wednesday night has been identified.

According to a press release from Charleston Police, the shooting victim was 21-year-old Jyilek Harrington of Charlotte.

According to CPD, officers responded to a disturbance call in the 700 block of Regency Drive where multiple shots were fired. Charleston Fire Department attempted life-saving measures at the scene.

According to a spokesperson for West Virginia State University's communications department, Harrington was a senior at WVSU. He transferred there just this year and played inside linebacker for the football team.

Ericke Cage, president of West Virginia State University, said in a press release, “Jyilek was a senior member of the Yellow Jacket football team. He was an outstanding student-athlete and a leader not only on our campus but also in our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jyilek's family as they mourn the loss of this incredible young man.”

“In addition, the athletic department is setting up a GoFundMe campaign in honor of Jyilek. During the holiday season, Jyilek will create a GoFundMe campaign to support families in need and this will be a way to continue this important work. We extend our sincere condolences to Jyilek's family, friends, coaches and teammates during this difficult time.”

To donate to WVSU’s Jyilek Harrington Memorial Fund, click here.

Meanwhile, Thursday night's opening game against the Carson-Newman Eagles has been rescheduled for noon Friday. Ticket holders can contact WVSU's sports information office to receive online credits for future home games, excluding the Oct. 12 home game.

Click here to see our previous coverage of this story.

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