FRANKFORT, KENTUCKY – One student has died, and another was critically injured in a shooting on Tuesday at Kentucky State University in Frankfort, authorities reported.
Police confirmed that the suspect, who is not enrolled at the university, is in custody. He has been identified as Jacob Lee Bard from Evansville, Indiana, and has been booked on charges of murder and first-degree assault.
Initial reports indicate the shooting stemmed from a personal dispute and was not a random attack or mass shooting. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said the situation posed no ongoing threat to the community.
The incident took place near Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall, a residence hall on the south side of the campus. One student was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other was hospitalized in stable but critical condition. Authorities emphasized that there is no continuing danger to the campus.
The Frankfort Police Department responded to reports of an active aggressor and continues to investigate the case. Kentucky State University officials are cooperating closely with local and state law enforcement.
In response to the shooting, all classes and campus activities have been canceled for the remainder of the week. University President Koffi Akakpo described the day as a “senseless tragedy” and expressed grief over the loss of a student.
Gov. Beshear called for thoughts and prayers for those affected and emphasized efforts to prevent future acts of violence in the state.
