By Jerald Jimenez
Aug 27, 2023, 5:50 PM EDT
A University of South Carolina student was shot and killed when he tried to enter the wrong house in a neighborhood near campus early Saturday morning.
The victim, identified as 20-year-old Nicholas Anthony Donofrio, was found dead on the porch of an off-campus home by Columbia police officers after receiving a call about a home burglary report, he said. the department through a statement.
According to authorities, the Donofrio, who was born in Connecticut, lived on the same street as the house he entered early Saturday morning.
“Preliminary information indicates that Donofrio, who was residing on South Holly Street, attempted to enter the wrong home when he was fatally shot,” Columbia police said in the statement.
The agents were called around 2:00 am to the house to begin the search, but a second call stated that shots were fired before the agents arrived.
Donofrio was identified by the Richland County Coroner’s Office, adding that he suffered a gunshot wound to the upper body.
“Our Student Affairs team is providing resources and support to those who may be affected by this tragedy, and we remind all of our students that help is always available for them,” the University of South Carolina said in a statement.
So far, the suspect in the murder has not been identified. No charges have been filed in the case either, but the investigation remains “active.”
“CPD investigators will continue to consult with the Fifth Circuit Attorney’s Office regarding the circumstances of the case,” the police statement concluded.