UPDATE: A shocking incident at Kentucky State University has led to a parent being charged with murder following a campus shooting that tragically left one student dead and another critically injured. Authorities have identified the alleged shooter as Jacob Lee Bard, a 48-year-old from Evansville, Indiana, who is also the father of two KSU students.
The violence erupted on December 9, 2025, at approximately 3:10 p.m. when Bard allegedly opened fire inside Young Hall, a residence hall on campus. In the aftermath, De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr., a 19-year-old sophomore, succumbed to his injuries at the Frankfort Regional Medical Center. Another unnamed student remains in intensive care, according to reports from ABC News.
Bard was arrested at the scene, thanks to the quick response of KSU Campus Police. He has been charged with murder and first-degree assault and entered a not guilty plea during a court appearance on December 11. Bard has been ordered to be held on a $1 million cash bond at the Franklin County Regional Jail.
Witnesses report that an altercation preceded the shooting, and footage of the incident has surfaced online. The Frankfort Police Department confirmed its authenticity, stating it is part of their ongoing investigation. Authorities have labeled the shooting as an isolated incident, assuring the public that there are no ongoing safety concerns on the KSU campus.
In the wake of the shooting, KSU has canceled all classes, final exams, and activities for the remainder of the week, prompting widespread concern among students and parents alike. Fox’s family has expressed their devastation, describing him as a loving young man who brought joy to those around him. His mother, April Terrance, emphasized the shock of such violence occurring in a place meant for education.
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses, already raising over $2,200 of its $3,500 goal. As the community grapples with this tragedy, the Franklin County Coroner’s Office and local law enforcement continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.
This developing story highlights the urgent need for discussions on campus safety and the impact of gun violence in educational settings. Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds.