Kentucky State University Shooting: Student Identified, Suspect in Custody
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A tragic shooting at Kentucky State University (KSU) on Tuesday evening resulted in the death of 19-year-old De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr., a student at the university, and left another student in critical condition. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief and a temporary suspension of campus activities.
The Incident and Victim Identification
Authorities confirmed that Fox Jr. was the sole fatality in the shooting, which occurred on campus around 3:00 p.m. According to a statement released by the Franklin County Coroner’s Office, Fox Jr. succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital. A full autopsy is expected to be completed within 14 to 16 weeks to determine the precise cause of death.
The condition of the second student injured in the shooting remained unclear as of Wednesday afternoon.
Suspect Arrested and Charged
Jacob Lee Bard, a 48-year-old Black man, was apprehended at the scene on Tuesday and faces charges of murder and first-degree assault. Records from the Franklin County Jail indicate that Bard is currently being held without bail.
University and State Response
KSU President Koffi Akakpo described the shooting as a “senseless tragedy” and called for prayers for the students. In response to the incident, the university announced the suspension of all classes, final exams, and campus activities for the remainder of the week.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear addressed the shooting via a post on X, stating, “Please, pray. Pray for those that have been injured. Please, pray for these Kentucky State University students that, again, might be rightfully scared. Pray for a world where these things don’t happen.”
KSU Profile and Ongoing Investigation
Kentucky State University, located in Frankfort, serves a student body of approximately 2,200 individuals. The university did not immediately respond to requests for further comment regarding the second student’s condition or details surrounding Fox Jr.’s death.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are continuing to gather information about the events leading up to the shooting.
