MADISON, Conn. — A 20-year-old student attending the University of South Carolina from Madison, Connecticut was shot and killed after investigators said he tried entering the wrong home over the weekend.
According to police in Columbia, South Carolina, the shooting happened just before 2:00 a.m. on Saturday. That's when police were called to the 500 block of S. Holly Street, initially for a report of a possible home burglary. While they were on their way, that call was switched to a shots fired call.
When police got to the home, they found someone lying on the front porch with a gunshot wound to the upper body. He was pronounced dead on the scene. That person was later identified by the Coroner's office as Nicholas Donofrio of Madison, Connecticut.
Police said Donofrio was attending The University of South Carolina as a sophomore, and also lived on S Holy Street.
In a 911 call, dispatchers report that the home owner shot him through the door of the home.
Nick's mother, Dina Barra Donofrio, sent FOX61 a statement via Facebook messenger saying, "We were very proud of Nick. We were very lucky to be his parents and love him very much. He was the son that every parent would wish for. Nick was also loved by his brother, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family. He had many, many friends, some of whom were like brothers to him. Nick was funny, smart, compassionate, and loved life. We will miss him immeasurably. We are extremely grateful for all the support we have received from family, friends, and the community during this tragic time."
The tragedy has shaken the small town of Madison.
"It’s just another gun tragedy. I mean it’s awful. I can’t imagine what his family is going through today," said Vanessa Vradenburgh, of Madison.
Vradenburgh doesn’t know the Donofrios. But she knows the town, having lived there for 14 years. And she believes everyone will rally around the family during this tragic time.
"When people go through difficult times in this community, because it’s small, everyone rallies," Vradenburgh said.
Especially for someone like Nick, who was involved in his community as an athlete. He graduated from Daniel Hand High School in 2021, as he served as the captain of the basketball team.
A representative for Madison Public Schools sent the following statement to FOX61: "The Madison Public Schools community is deeply saddened to learn of the death of recent Daniel Hand High School Class of 2021 graduate Nicholas Donofrio. Nick was an exceptional young man who excelled in the classroom and as an athlete. Our thoughts are with Nick’s family and friends at this time. Supports will be available at DHHS beginning Tuesday, August 29th and remain in place as long as needed for students and faculty who wish to speak to someone regarding this tragedy."
At this time, police have not brought any charges in this case. However, they do say that is all part of their investigation.
Columbia Police is working with the Fifth Circuit Solicitor’s Office on the investigation.
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