Senior linebacker Jyilek Harrington, 21, from West Virginia State University was killed in a home invasion on Wednesday evening, September 11, 2024. The tragic incident occurred one day before Harrington’s team was due to compete against his former school, Carson-Newman University.
Charleston Police in West Virginia were alerted to a disturbance in the 700 block of Regency Drive at approximately 8:38 p.m., following reports of multiple gunshots. Upon their arrival, emergency responders discovered Harrington inside an apartment, seriously wounded. Despite efforts to save his life, Harrington succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
According to Lieutenant Tony Hazelett of the Charleston Police Department, multiple gunshots were fired during a disturbance in a hallway and within the apartment. Details regarding a potential suspect have not yet been released by the authorities.
A native of Charlotte, North Carolina, Harrington recently transferred to West Virginia State University for his senior year. He was an inside linebacker for the Yellow Jackets football team and had an impressive performance in his last game against Barton College, making eight tackles and one sack, which contributed to his team’s 27-24 win.
West Virginia State University President Ericke Cage expressed his condolences, praising Harrington as an exceptional student-athlete who was a true leader both on campus and in the wider community. Cage extended his thoughts and prayers to Harrington’s family, mourning the loss of a remarkable young man.
The university’s home opener against Carson-Newman University, originally scheduled for Thursday night, September 12, was pushed back to Friday, September 13, at noon. This rescheduling allowed private vigils to be held by both teams on Thursday evening. Prior to West Virginia State, Harrington attended Carson-Newman.
Reacting to the tragic news, Carson-Newman University head football coach Ashley Ingram stated, “This was tragic and awful news to receive this morning.” The sentiment was shared throughout both campuses, as students and staff grappled with the sudden loss.
It was not just on the football field where Harrington made a difference. Nate Burton, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics at West Virginia State University, highlighted Harrington’s altruistic nature, mentioning how he had organized a GoFundMe campaign to support needy families during the Christmas season.
To honor Harrington’s memory and continue his philanthropic efforts, the athletic department at West Virginia State University has set up a memorial fund. The donations received will be given to an organization in Harrington’s hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina, continuing his legacy of helping others.
As the Charleston Police Department in West Virginia continues its investigation into the shooting, authorities are encouraging anyone with information related to the incident to step forward.