UPDATE: A shocking campus shooting at Kentucky State University has resulted in the death of a student and the arrest of a parent. Jacob Lee Bard, 48, from Evansville, Indiana, has been charged with murder following the tragic incident that unfolded on December 9, 2025.
The violence erupted around 3:10 PM at Young Hall when Bard allegedly opened fire, fatally injuring 19-year-old De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr. and critically wounding another unnamed student. Fox was rushed to Frankfort Regional Medical Center but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. The injured student remains in intensive care.
Authorities have confirmed that Bard, who is a father to two other KSU students, was apprehended at the scene, thanks to the swift action of campus police. He has been charged with murder and first-degree assault and entered a not guilty plea during his court appearance on December 11. Bard is currently being held on a $1 million cash bond at the Franklin County Regional Jail.
The incident prompted an immediate lockdown of the KSU campus as law enforcement responded rapidly. Although an altercation reportedly led to the shooting, details regarding Bard’s presence on campus remain unclear. Fortunately, police have stated that the incident appears to be isolated, assuring the public that there are no ongoing safety concerns on campus.
KSU has taken preventive measures by canceling classes, final exams, and all activities for the rest of the week. The emotional toll of this incident is profound, with Fox’s family expressing their devastation. His mother, April Terrance, shared her heartbreak, stating, “No one expects something of this nature to happen when sending their children to school.”
In light of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Fox’s family with funeral expenses, and it has already raised over $2,200 of its $3,500 goal.
Footage of the altercation is circulating online, and police have confirmed its authenticity as part of their ongoing investigation. The Frankfort Police Department and the Franklin County Coroner’s Office continue to investigate this shocking event.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this violence, all eyes are on the unfolding investigation and the support for the victims’ families. Stay tuned for more updates as authorities continue to provide information regarding this tragic situation.
