One student is dead and another critically injured following a shooting on the campus of Kentucky State University in Frankfort. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement after reports of an active aggressor.
Authorities arrested Jacob Lee Bard, 48, of Evansville, Indiana, as a suspect in the shooting. Bard is identified as a parent of a current Kentucky State University student and has been charged with murder and first-degree assault. According to police, he is currently in custody following the incident.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the shooting was the result of a personal dispute rather than a random act of violence. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear addressed the incident in a video statement, confirming that there is no ongoing threat to the university community. “This was not a mass shooting or a random incident,” he stated, assuring families that the situation was under control.
The shooting took place near Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall, a residence hall located on the south side of the campus. An altercation reportedly preceded the shooting, during which Bard allegedly used a handgun to shoot two students. The Franklin County Coroner’s Office later identified the deceased victim as 19-year-old De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr., a sophomore originally from Indianapolis. His family expressed their heartbreak, describing him as someone who cherished his time at the university.
The second victim was taken to a local hospital, where they are currently in stable but critical condition. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and Frankfort Police Assistant Chief Scott Tracy emphasized that this was an isolated incident. There are ongoing investigations into online videos that surfaced, showing what appeared to be an altercation involving students, though it remains too early to confirm a direct connection to the shooting.
In light of the events, all classes and campus activities have been suspended for the remainder of the week, as the university focuses on addressing the safety and emotional needs of its students. Kentucky State University President Koffi Akakpo expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling the event a “senseless tragedy.”
Governor Beshear urged the public to support those affected by the shooting and reiterated his commitment to fostering a community where conflicts do not end in violence. The investigation continues as authorities work collaboratively with state and local law enforcement to understand the full context of the incident.
