Tragedy Strikes KSU Campus: Parent Faces Murder Charges
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Authorities have charged a parent of a Kentucky State University student with murder after a gunman opened fire on the campus Tuesday, killing one student and seriously injuring another. The suspect, who is not enrolled at the university, was taken into custody shortly after the shooting and is now jailed, officials confirmed.
Fatal Shooting at Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall
The incident occurred near Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall, a residence building on the south side of the historically Black university’s campus. Emergency responders were called to the scene Tuesday afternoon following reports of an active shooter.
Police say the gunfire left 19-year-old De’Jon Fox Jr. of Indianapolis dead. Another student was wounded and remains in critical condition, though police have declined to release their name.
Officials identified the suspect as 48-year-old Jacob Lee Bard, a resident of Evansville, Indiana, and a parent of a Kentucky State University student. Bard is charged with murder and first-degree assault and is being held without bond.
Investigation Underway, Motive Still Unclear
University police, who were near the site at the time of the shooting, apprehended Bard immediately. Investigators are reviewing surveillance videos and footage taken by witnesses to determine the sequence of events that led to the violence.
Officials have stated that the shooting appears to be an isolated incident, and there is currently no broader threat to campus safety. However, they have not disclosed details about what may have triggered the attack.
Campus Response and Safety Measures
In the wake of the shooting, university leadership has suspended classes and examinations and is offering counseling and support services to students and staff affected by the tragedy. Local authorities continue to work closely with campus officials to enhance safety and provide updates as the investigation progresses.
