A tragic shooting occurred at Kentucky State University on Tuesday, Dec. 9, resulting in one person dead and another in critical but stable condition. The incident took place in Whitney M. Young Hall, a residence hall on the south side of the campus.
Frankfort police responded promptly to reports of an active aggressor, arriving four minutes after the call around 3:10 p.m. Both victims were students who suffered gunshot wounds. The university is withholding further details out of respect for the families and is providing support to them.
Jacob Lee Bard, a 48-year-old from Evansville, Indiana, who is not affiliated with the university, was identified as the suspected shooter. He is currently in custody, charged with murder and first-degree assault, and held at Franklin County Regional Jail.
Kentucky State University, a historically Black college with over 2,200 students and 450 staff, has suspended all classes, exams, and campus activities for the rest of the week. Officials have stated there is no ongoing threat and consider the incident isolated.
Governor Andy Beshear acknowledged the situation and urged prayers for those affected. The university and local law enforcement continue coordinating to ensure campus safety.
