Campus Tragedy: Parent Charged in Kentucky State University Shooting Death

A tragic shooting at Kentucky State University has left a student dead and another fighting for his life. The violent incident occurred on Tuesday inside a campus residence hall in Frankfort, Kentucky. Police have charged a visiting parent with murder.

The arrest has sent shockwaves through the historically Black university community. It marks the second shooting near student housing in just four months, raising urgent questions about campus safety.

Details of the Fatal Confrontation

Authorities identified the suspect as 48-year-old Jacob Lee Bard from Evansville, Indiana. According to police reports, Bard fired multiple shots at two students inside Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall.

The shooting killed 19-year-old De’Jon Fox from Indianapolis. A second student was critically wounded. University police officers were nearby and arrested Bard at the scene.

He now faces charges of murder and first-degree assault. Investigators have reviewed witness phone footage and security camera recordings as part of their probe.

Ongoing Investigation and Campus Response

Reporters have asked if a prior altercation involving Bard’s sons played a role. Some suggested Bard came to campus to discuss his sons’ safety with administrators.

Frankfort Assistant Police Chief Scott Tracy called such details speculative. He stated the investigation is still too early to confirm a motive. Bard’s public defender has declined to comment.

University President Koffi C. Akakpo addressed the media. He stated the campus had already increased police patrols after a shooting last August near the same dorm.

The Kentucky State University shooting has plunged the campus into mourning as officials promise a thorough safety review. The community now awaits answers while supporting the victims’ families.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Who was arrested for the Kentucky State shooting?

Police arrested 48-year-old Jacob Lee Bard, a parent from Indiana. He was charged with murder and assault after the incident in the residence hall.

Q2: What happened to the students involved?

Student De’Jon Fox, 19, was killed. A second student was critically injured and remains hospitalized. Their names have not been fully released.

Q3: Was there a previous shooting at Kentucky State?

Yes. In August, a drive-by shooting near the same dorm injured two non-students. The university increased police presence after that event.

Q4: How is the university handling security now?

President Akakpo said the campus is safe but will reassess all measures. The current police presence is heightened following both violent incidents.

Q5: What is the suspected motive for the attack?

Police have not confirmed a motive. The investigation is ongoing, and officials say it is too early to release details about what led to the violence.