One Killed, Another Injured in Kentucky State University Dormitory Shooting; Suspect Arrested

A fatal shooting occurred at Kentucky State University, resulting in the death of one student and critical injury to another. The incident took place in a university residence hall on Tuesday afternoon, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. Authorities have taken a suspect, identified as Jacob Lee Bard from Evansville, Indiana, into custody. Bard is not affiliated with the university as a student and is facing charges including murder and first-degree assault.

Law enforcement officials described the shooting as an isolated event with no ongoing threat to campus safety. The incident unfolded at Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall, one of the university's residential buildings. According to university statements, the injured student remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition. The university is withholding the identities of the victims at this time.

Following the incident, Kentucky State University officials have reached out to the families of those affected, offering support and counseling services to students and staff. In response to the shooting, all classes, final examinations, and campus activities have been suspended for the remainder of the week. The university indicated that students may choose to return home if they wish, and additional guidance will be provided as the situation develops.

Local authorities, including the Frankfort police, continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The suspect, Bard, was booked into the county jail, and officials are working to clarify legal representation for him. Law enforcement has not released a possible motive for the incident at this stage.

Footage from the scene depicted a significant police presence outside the dormitory area, with crime scene tape cordoning off a section of the campus. The event has prompted concern among students and faculty, with university leadership expressing deep regret over the loss and pledging ongoing support for the campus community.

This shooting marks the second violent incident near the same residence hall within a four-month period. In August, gunfire from a vehicle near the dormitory injured two individuals who were not students, and damaged property in the area. That case remains under investigation.

Kentucky State University, a historically Black institution founded in 1886, serves approximately 2,200 students and is situated a short distance from the state Capitol in Frankfort. University officials and state leaders have emphasized the importance of campus safety and the need for continued vigilance and support for those affected by violence.