BREAKING: A parent has been charged with murder following a devastating shooting at Kentucky State University that left one student dead and another critically injured. The accused, Jacob Lee Bard, 48, from Evansville, Indiana, allegedly opened fire on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, during an altercation on campus.
The tragic shooting unfolded around 3:10 PM at the Young Hall area, where Bard reportedly brandished a handgun and shot two students. De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr., a 19-year-old sophomore, succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to Frankfort Regional Medical Center. The second student remains in intensive care, their condition undisclosed.
Authorities swiftly apprehended Bard on the scene, with KSU Campus Police taking him into custody. He has been charged with murder and first-degree assault, entering a not guilty plea during his court appearance on Thursday, December 11. Bard has been ordered to be held on a $1 million full cash bond at the Franklin County Regional Jail.
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the KSU community, prompting immediate action from university officials. All classes, final exams, and activities have been canceled for the remainder of the week in light of the incident. Authorities have stated that the shooting is believed to be an isolated event, ensuring there are no further “active safety concerns” on campus.
In a heart-wrenching statement, Fox’s family described him as a loving and vibrant young man who brought joy to others. His mother, April Terrance, expressed the profound shock and sorrow felt by the family, stating, “No one expects something of this nature to happen when sending their children to school.” In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to cover funeral expenses, raising over $2,200 of its $3,500 goal.
Video footage of the altercation has surfaced online, showing a fight between parties involved. Police have confirmed its authenticity and are incorporating it into their ongoing investigation. The Frankfort Police Department and the Franklin County Coroner’s Office are actively investigating the incident.
As this story develops, the KSU community seeks healing and answers in the wake of this tragic event. Stay tuned for more updates as authorities continue their investigation.
