One Dead, Three Injured in Dual Shootings During Winston-Salem State University Homecoming

A homecoming celebration at Winston-Salem State University turned deadly on Saturday night when two separate shooting incidents left one person dead and three others wounded, according to local police.

The violence erupted around 9:45 p.m. on Nov. 7, 2026, during homecoming celebrations, the News & Observer reported.

The tragedy has cast a shadow over the Winston-Salem State University community, as officials work to determine if the two shootings were linked.

Officers stationed on campus for the events heard gunshots and discovered a 19‑year‑old man suffering from a gunshot wound. He died at the scene.

BREAKING NEWS: WSPD gives update on Winston-Salem State University Shootings

Charlotte Alerts News identified the deceased victim as 19‑year‑old Peyton Patterson. A 22‑year‑old woman was also injured in this initial incident; she was treated at a hospital and later released.

Less than an hour after the first incident, a second shooting occurred on campus. Police responded to reports of gunfire following an altercation that left two additional people injured.

While investigators are looking into whether these two events are connected, no arrests have been made in relation to the second shooting.

One Dead, Three Injured in Dual Shootings During Winston-Salem State University Homecoming — Photo: abcnews.com

Authorities have taken one man into custody in connection with the fatal shooting. Winston‑Salem police arrested 20‑year‑old Ziyaire Spinks, who was not a student at the university.

Spinks is being held without bond on charges of murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and possession of a firearm on educational property. Police stated the shooting appeared to stem from an argument between two groups of people.

BREAKING NEWS: WSPD Provides update on Winston-Salem State University Shooting

Law enforcement officials are urging the public to allow the investigation to proceed without speculation. Chief William Penn, Jr. of the Winston‑Salem Police Department said his department is committed to finding everyone responsible for the violence.

“It’s important that the blame of these tragic events go to the right people and that’s the folks who committed these acts,” Penn said.

The university responded by immediately halting the festivities. Chancellor Bonita Brown canceled all remaining homecoming activities for Sunday, replacing them with a call for prayer led by a local church, according to the Raleigh News & Observer.

FULL: Winston-Salem police hold briefing on shootings outside Hanes Mall, on WSSU campus

In a statement, Chancellor Brown described the incidents as “heartbreaking” and “senseless violence,” noting that the university is providing counseling services to students and faculty facing anxiety over the events.

Assistant Police Chief Jason Swaim announced early Sunday morning that the campus lockdown had been lifted and the campus was secure, though he did not provide specific details regarding suspects or motives.

Charlotte Alerts News noted that some institutions are facing challenges including declining enrollment and concerns regarding campus safety and funding.

Detail	Information Reported
Total people shot	4
Injuries	3
Primary suspect arrested	Ziyaire Spinks, 20

Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough, Jr. echoed the calls for unity following the violence. He stated that the community is in need of prayer and collective strength to move forward.

Police have not yet released the identities of the three injured victims or confirmed if any other suspects remain at large.

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