Parent of Kentucky State University student charged in shooting that resulted in the death of a teenager.
Murder Charges Filed in Kentucky State University Shooting Incident
Frankfort, KY – A significant incident has unfolded at Kentucky State University, where a parent of a student has been charged with murder following a shooting that resulted in the death of one student and left another in critical condition. The accused, 48-year-old Jacob Lee Bard from Evansville, Indiana, was apprehended shortly after the incident occurred on the university’s campus.
On Tuesday, Bard allegedly discharged his weapon at two students located inside a residence hall, leading to tragic consequences. Nineteen-year-old De’Jon Fox from Indianapolis was pronounced dead at the scene, while the identity of the second victim remains undisclosed as he remains hospitalized in critical condition, according to law enforcement.
Bard has been formally charged with murder and first-degree assault and is currently being held at the Franklin County Detention Center. Legal representation for Bard is being provided by a public defender from the Franklin County Department of Public Advocacy, who has chosen not to comment on the details of the case.
Eyewitness accounts and video footage from the campus are being analyzed by investigators, although authorities have not provided specifics regarding the sequence of events that led to the shooting or potential motives behind Bard’s actions. The Assistant Police Chief of Frankfort, Scott Tracy, emphasized that it is premature to speculate about the circumstances leading up to the altercation. Reports suggest that the incident may have been preceded by a confrontation involving Bard’s sons, raising questions about whether Bard’s visit to the campus was related to concerns for their safety.
This shooting marks the second violent occurrence at Kentucky State University in recent months. In August, gunfire erupted near the same residence hall, resulting in injuries to two individuals who were confirmed not to be students. Following that incident, university officials increased police presence on campus and have committed to reassessing safety measures post-investigation in light of the latest shooting.
University President Koffi C. Akakpo has publicly asserted that the safety of the campus community remains a priority, asserting the belief that Kentucky State University is a safe environment for students. Established in 1886, Kentucky State University is a public historically Black university, currently serving approximately 2,200 students and located just two miles east of the state Capitol in Frankfort.
As the investigation into this incident continues, the community remains on alert, hoping for the swift identification of the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Further updates are anticipated as police and university officials work together to ensure the safety of all students. Media News Source.
