Grand jury decides not to indict man in shooting incident that resulted in the death of a teenager at Kentucky State University.

A grand jury in Frankfort, Kentucky, has made the decision not to indict Jacob Lee Bard, the father of two Kentucky State University students, who was charged with murder following a shooting incident on campus that resulted in the death of one student and left another critically injured. The incident took place on December 9, 2023, prompting an investigation that has drawn significant attention.

After the grand jury’s ruling, defense attorney Scott Danks announced via social media that Bard is now released from custody. In previous statements, Bard’s legal team contended that the shooting was an act of self-defense. They argued that a group of 20 to 30 individuals had gathered to confront Bard’s sons and family, leading to a physical altercation in which Bard intervened to protect his son from imminent harm.

Kentucky State University officials have indicated their commitment to cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues, emphasizing their focus on the safety and well-being of students during this challenging time. Bard’s family had been in the process of relocating their younger son from the university, citing a series of violent incidents that had escalated around them, including threats and assaults captured on security footage.

The attorneys detailed an alarming sequence of events that unfolded as the family approached the dormitory to facilitate the move. According to them, a group of individuals wearing masks and hooded clothing attacked the family, resulting in severe violence directed at Bard’s son. In the preceding months, the younger son had reported a burglary at his dorm and had subsequently faced threats, which led to heightened concerns for their safety.

Due to ongoing threats against them, the Bard family has reportedly sought refuge at an undisclosed location. Their attorneys maintain that Bard’s actions were legally justified, asserting that his response was crucial in preventing potential fatal injuries to his son.

The shooting, which claimed the life of 19-year-old De’Jon Fox from Indianapolis, has been deemed an isolated incident by investigators, although details surrounding the circumstances and motive of the shooting have not been disclosed publicly. The university offered condolences to the community, acknowledging the continued pain stemming from the incident while reinforcing their commitment to ensuring a safe educational environment.

This recent shooting marks the second violent episode in close proximity to the residence hall within just four months, raising concerns within the campus community and beyond. In August, gunfire erupted from a vehicle near the same location, resulting in injuries to two individuals who were not affiliated with the university. Kentucky State University, which serves approximately 2,200 students, was established in 1886 and is recognized as a public historically Black university.

As this case unfolds, the focus remains on addressing safety concerns while maintaining a supportive atmosphere for students.

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