USC Shooting

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The alleged shooter, Tyson Tyree Smith, pled not guilty during his arraignment. Smith is charged with two counts of attempted murder-- along with two counts of assault with a semiautomatic handgun. Both victims survived.

District Attorney Kenneth Ma

"The way it was charged is the maximum he could receive.// Today was a very simple process of him just pleading not guilty. We go through normal pre-trial motions at this stage. It could take anywhere from 60 days to about a year before we go to trial."

Smith allegedly opened fire with a 'Chrome 25' Semi-automatic handgun on a group of students at a house party near the campus. The bullet struck one woman in the hand and another man in the chest. Smith, who may not have been an invited guest, allegedly grabbed a pair of headphones from the house and tried to flee when partygoers tried to stop him.

Detectives used surveillance video and photos taken during the party to identify Smith.

University Police Captain David Caryle says the incident should remind students that they need to take extra precautions to remain safe when off campus.

"What we try and get students to do, if they are going to have a social event then they need to have someone who's not drinking, in charge, and make sure that they know who the guests are on the invite list. And if not, call DPS or the LAPD. Don't try and take matters into your own hand."

Smith is back in court for a pre-trial conference April 18th. If convicted of the attempted murder and assault charges, Smith could face up to two life sentences in prison.