FRANKFORT, Ky. — A tragic shooting at Kentucky State University has left the campus community in mourning after a 19-year-old student lost his life. De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr., originally from Indianapolis, was pronounced dead on Tuesday afternoon at Frankfort Regional Medical Center, shortly after the incident unfolded.
The Frankfort Police Department received reports of an “active aggressor” at approximately 3:35 p.m. As authorities responded, they arrested a suspect identified as 48-year-old Jacob Lee Bard of Evansville, Indiana, just minutes later. Bard, who is a parent of a KSU student, faces charges of murder and assault in connection with the shooting.
In addition to Fox Jr.’s death, another student sustained serious injuries and is currently in critical condition at a local hospital. The shooting occurred in the Young Hall area on the southern side of the campus, a location where students typically feel safe.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear addressed the incident, emphasizing that it was not random and reassuring the community that there is no ongoing threat. “Violence has no place in our commonwealth or country,” he stated, expressing condolences to those affected and urging prayers for the KSU community. He acknowledged the swift response of law enforcement, which helped to control a rapidly evolving situation.
While details about the motive behind the shooting remain unclear, the coroner’s office confirmed an autopsy for Fox Jr. was conducted, although full results will take up to 16 weeks to process. The close-knit campus, consisting of roughly 1,700 students and 450 faculty members, is grappling with the shock of this violent event.
Freshman Aveona Bingham shared her dismay, noting that many students come to college in search of a safe environment. “We come to school to be safe,” Bingham remarked. “It’s pretty heartbreaking that someone died right in front of where we lay our heads.”
In response to the tragedy, Kentucky State University has canceled all classes, final exams, and campus activities for the remainder of the week. As students and staff process the loss, the focus remains on healing and supporting those affected by this devastating incident.