Kentucky State University Shooting: Suspect Arrested After Fatal Incident
At Kentucky State University in Frankfort, a shooting resulted in the tragic death of one student and left another critically injured. The incident occurred on Tuesday at a residence hall, with the suspect, who is not affiliated with the university, now in custody.
Authorities confirmed the shooting took place around 3 p.m. and described it as an “isolated incident.” Frankfort’s Assistant Chief of Police, Scott Tracy, assured that there are no ongoing safety concerns on campus. However, the motive behind the shooting remains undisclosed.
Jacob Lee Bard, hailing from Evansville, Indiana, was apprehended and faces charges of murder and first-degree assault. This town lies approximately 150 miles west of Frankfort. Bard’s current legal representation status is unclear, as neither court nor jail records list an attorney for him, and the public defender’s and prosecutor’s offices have yet to comment.
WLKY-TV footage displayed numerous police vehicles surrounding dormitories with crime scene tape marking the area. The university confirmed that the critically wounded student is stable. Names of the involved students have not been released.
Kentucky State University expressed their condolences, stating, “We are in close contact with the families and are providing every available support to them.” The institution has also made counseling services available to students.
Governor Andy Beshear addressed the situation in a video message on X, formerly known as Twitter, describing the event as an “isolated incident” and stressing that “there is no ongoing threat.” He urged for prayers for the affected families and a call for a world where such violence does not occur.
In response to the shooting, the university canceled classes, final exams, and all campus activities for the remainder of the week, as the fall term was nearing its end. Students were informed they could return home if they wished, with additional guidance promised soon.
University President Koffi C. Akakpo labeled the event a “senseless tragedy,” adding, “We’re mourning the loss of one of our students.” He empathized with the families, expressing the unimaginable nature of delivering such devastating news to parents.
This incident marks the second shooting near the same residence hall within four months. On August 17, shots fired from a vehicle injured two individuals who were not students. That previous incident resulted in minor and serious injuries to the victims, with damages to the dorm and a vehicle.
Kentucky State University, a public historically Black institution established in 1886, boasts a student body of approximately 2,200. The campus is situated about two miles east of the Capitol building.
