Jyliek Zyiare Harrington, a football player at West Virginia State University, was killed Wednesday night during a home invasion.
Charleston Police said the 21-year-old was found with multiple gunshot wounds in his apartment. EMTs attempted life-saving measures, but he was later pronounced dead at the scene.
According to investigators, there was a disturbance in the building’s hallway and in the apartment before shots were fired. The incident is being investigated as a home invasion. Police said there is no current suspect description or information.
Harrington, a senior originally from Charlotte, N.C., was a linebacker on the team. The university described him as a “leader not only on our campus, but in our community.”
The team’s scheduled Thursday night game was moved to Friday afternoon in order to hold a vigil.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Jyilek’s family as they mourn the loss of this incredible young man,” school president Ericke S. Cage said in a letter to students and faculty.
“In remembrance of Jyilek, and in support of our football team, I am encouraging all students, faculty and staff to attend [tomorrow’s football game at noon] against Carson-Newman University, where Jyilek also once played,” Cage added.