FRANKFORT, KY — In a devastating act of violence that pierced the heart of a historic campus, Kentucky State University (KSU) is mourning the loss of 19-year-old sophomore Dejon Fox and praying for the recovery of a second wounded student. The Tuesday afternoon shooting, perpetrated by an individual with no affiliation to the university, has triggered a profound communal grief and raised urgent questions about campus security and motive.
The incident unfolded at approximately 3:10 p.m. in the south campus area near Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall. Within four minutes of the “active aggressor” call, Frankfort Police were on scene, swiftly securing the perimeter and detaining the lone suspect without further violence.
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Authorities have identified the alleged shooter as 48-year-old Jacob Lee Bard of Evansville, Indiana. Bard, who is not and has never been a student at KSU, now faces charges of murder and first-degree assault. He is being held at the Franklin County Regional Jail. Law enforcement sources emphasize the shooting appears to be an isolated incident, with no ongoing threat to the community.
“The rapid response by our officers and the immediate cooperation of multiple agencies undoubtedly prevented further tragedy,” said a Frankfort Police spokesperson, referencing the significant multi-agency presence that included Kentucky State Police, ATF, and Homeland Security.
The identity of the second victim, a student listed in stable but critical condition, is being withheld by the university out of respect for the family. The campus remains under a modified lockdown as the investigation continues.
In a somber video statement, Governor Andy Beshear reflected the commonwealth’s shock. “Violence has no place here,” he stated. “Today, we wrap our arms around the KSU family. We pray for Dejon’s loved ones, for the healing of the injured student, and for a world where our places of learning are sanctuaries.”
The tragedy has reverberated far beyond campus borders, striking at the identity of Frankfort itself. “KSU is not just the university—it is our university,” wrote Frankfort City Commissioner Katima Smith-Willis in a public plea for unity. “In this pain, we must lean into compassion and care for one another.”
KSU administration, in its initial statement, expressed being “heartbroken.” The university has activated its crisis response team, making counseling services available to all students, faculty, and staff. Flags on campus will be flown at half-staff.
As the Thorobred community grapples with this loss, the investigation now turns to a central, haunting question: what motive drove a 48-year-old Indiana man to target students on this particular campus? For now, a historic institution known for its legacy of nurturing young minds is left to mourn one of its own and reckon with a vulnerability no community ever expects to face.
Updates will be provided as official information is verified. Resources for those affected are available through the KSU Office of Counseling Services.