ALLENDALE COUNTY, S.C. (WFXG) - Community members are mourning the loss of one student after a series of shootings in Allendale County, according to the Allendale County School District.

Police say a 14-year-old girl was sleeping when she was hit by a bullet. It came from outside of her home off Bay Shore Drive. 

She was a freshman at Allendale-Fairfax High School.

Officials say another student was injured in the shootings. The second shooting happened on Carroll Street.

"This is a time for us to stand together, not just in mourning, but in unity and resolve. We must support each other, offering comfort and strength to our students, staff, and families who are grappling with fear and loss," said Dr. Vallerie Cave, superintendent of the schools.

Dr. Cave shared the news in a statement on Facebook Sunday. School officials plan to increase security at all locations.

The district will have additional police in place. Students will be screened by wanding, scanning, or metal detectors, according to Dr. Cave. School officials will also enforce limited entry in school buildings.

School officials are asking all middle and high school students to wear ID Badges and leave cell phones and book bags at home on Monday.

There will be no early releases at the schools, and students will have a regular schedule, according to Dr. Cave.

"This is a time for action. We must come together to address the root causes of violence and work tirelessly to ensure the safety of our children," said Dr. Cave.

"We cannot accept living in fear. I am calling on all community members, local organizations, and law enforcement to collaborate on comprehensive strategies to prevent such tragedies from ever occurring again," she added.

Counseling services will be available throughout the week for students who need support, according to officials.

The Allendale Police Department also released a statement Saturday saying the "series of shootings has left the communities of Allendale, Fairfax, and Allendale County as a whole with a profound sense of sadness."

FOX54 spoke with Allendale Police Chief Lawrence Wiggins, who stated, "We cannot confirm a gang connection. However, it could be a factor. SLED is handling the investigations, and we are assisting when appropriate."

Chief Wiggins also stated although it's not confirmed, they do suspect that both shootings are connected.

If you have any information about the recent shootings in Allendale, you can call city police at 803-584-2178 or email [email protected] to share an anonymous tip. You can also reach out to the Allendale County Sheriff's Office at 803-584-7067.

This story is developing. 

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