Jacob Lee Bard, a 48-year-old from Evansville, Indiana, has been charged with murder and first-degree assault following a shooting at Kentucky State University on Tuesday (December 9). The incident occurred at the Whitney M. Young Jr. residence hall, resulting in the death of 19-year-old student De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr. and critically injuring another student, whose identity has not been released. Bard is the parent of a student at the university.
The shooting followed a physical altercation, but the exact motive remains unclear. Frankfort Police Assistant Chief Scott Tracy did not confirm if Bard’s actions were related to his son’s safety concerns. The university, a historically Black institution with around 2,200 students, suspended all classes and activities for the rest of the week.
The shooting took place during finals week, just before the winter break, and was not considered a targeted attack, as stated by university spokesperson Michael DeCourcy to CNN. The quick response from campus police and other agencies ensured Bard was apprehended shortly after the first gunfire.
Neighbors in Evansville described Bard as a quiet person, with no significant criminal history in Indiana, though he had some minor charges in Henderson County two decades ago. The Evansville Police Department has increased patrols in the area for safety concerns.
Kentucky State University President Koffi C. Akakpo expressed his condolences, calling the shooting a “senseless tragedy” and urging the community to support the affected families. The university is providing counseling services to students, faculty, and staff impacted by the incident.
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