Jyilek Harrington Obituary, Death: West Virginia State University Senior, Jyilek Harrington, Identified as Victim in Fatal Charleston Shooting; Football Team and Campus Community Mourn

Charleston, West Virginia — The unfortunate shooting victim on Wednesday night has been identified by the Charleston Police Department as 21-year-old Jyilek Harrington, an inside linebacker for West Virginia State University (WVSU) and a senior. Harrington, a recent transfer to WVSU from Charlotte, North Carolina, was well-liked by his peers for being a committed student-athlete and a positive influence on campus.

The shooting, which happened in the 700 block of Regency Drive, stunned the neighborhood and sent shockwaves through the Charleston region and the WVSU campus. Officers were called to the scene after a disturbance turned violent and resulted in several gunshots, according to Charleston Police. Shortly after, the Charleston Fire Department responded to Harrington’s call for help, but their attempts to save his life were eventually fruitless. At the scene, Harrington was declared deceased.

Despite just having recently arrived, Harrington had already left a lasting mark on the WVSU community, therefore hearing of his departure has caused shock and disbelief. Harrington was a vital member of the Yellow Jackets football team and had transferred to WVSU earlier this year, according to the university’s communications office. As an inside linebacker, he was highly respected on the field and well-known for his perseverance and hard work.

Harrington had a promising and tenacious journey to WVSU. He was a native of Charlotte and had a strong interest in both academics and football. His desire to succeed in both fields and to take advantage of the opportunities that were given to him drove him to transfer to WVSU. Anticipating his last year of college with great anticipation, he was resolved to leave his mark in the classroom as well as on the field. His teammates and coaches have expressed their astonishment and sadness, and many have spoken of him as a kind and encouraging buddy in addition to being a gifted athlete.