On December 9, 2025, a violent confrontation erupted at Kentucky State University (KSU) in Frankfort, Kentucky, during a brawl involving up to 30 people. Jacob Bard, 48, and his wife arrived on campus to retrieve their son, who had reported being attacked after notifying authorities about a burglary. As a campus police officer escorted them to the dorm, a growing mob allegedly assaulted Bard and his son. Bard fired shots in response, killing 19-year-old KSU student De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr. and critically injuring another individual. Bard claims self-defense and pleaded not guilty to murder and first-degree assault charges.
Legal Developments
A grand jury declined to indict Bard on December 23, 2025, citing insufficient evidence, aligning with Kentucky’s self-defense laws under KRS 503.050, which allow deadly force when one reasonably believes it’s necessary to prevent imminent death or serious injury. No charges have been filed against the alleged attackers, despite known identities, as noted by Bard’s attorney, Jonathan Danks.
Separately, De’Jon Fox Jr.’s parents—De’Jon Darrell Fox Sr., 38, and Chardnae Cleveland, 37—were arrested in Indiana on felony intimidation charges. Authorities allege they posted threats on social media targeting Bard, including:
- “YOU DONTKNOW WHAT U TOOK FROM ME BUT YOU WILL FEEL THE SAME HURT I FEEL.”
- Under “Capo Fatman Fox”: “I want his son dead just like mine.”
- A deleted post: “Might drive to Evansville today to see some vicelords!” (referencing the Vice Lords gang, linked to violence and organized crime).
These posts, per probable cause affidavits reviewed by WDRB, prompted arrests despite the parents’ grief.
University and Broader Response
KSU President Koffi Akakpo stated the university is cooperating with law enforcement, enhancing security, and conducting internal reviews. Danks criticized KSU for inadequate oversight, pointing to prior armed incidents and unprosecuted attackers, which he links to ongoing death threats against Bard.
This case highlights tensions in campus safety, self-defense claims, and online threats amid high-profile violence. KSU, an HBCU, faces scrutiny over incident handling, echoing national discussions on university responses to mob violence (e.g., similar cases at UNC and UVA).
For real-time updates, check local sources like WDRB or Frankfort Police Department statements, as investigations continue.
