Kentucky State University Shooting: Suspect Identified as 48-Year-Old Jacob Lee Bard
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky State University (KSU) remains on lockdown following a deadly shooting on campus Tuesday afternoon that left one student dead and another critically injured, officials said.
Authorities confirmed the suspected gunman—who is not affiliated with the university—has been taken into custody. According to Frankfort Police, officers responded to reports of an active aggressor on the KSU campus shortly after 3:10 p.m. Police arrived within minutes and quickly located the scene of the shooting, which occurred in the south campus area near Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall.
University officials said two students were shot during the incident. One student died from their injuries. The second student is listed in stable but critical condition and is receiving ongoing medical care. Investigators also confirmed that both victims were current KSU students.
During an evening press conference, Frankfort Police identified the suspect as 48-year-old Jacob Lee Bard of Evansville, Indiana. Bard has been charged with murder and first-degree assault. Police said he was taken into custody without further incident and has been booked in the Franklin County Regional Jail.
Authorities credited the swift and coordinated response of local, state, and federal agencies with containing the situation almost immediately and preventing further harm. Officials emphasized that the shooting was an isolated incident and that there is no continuing threat to the campus or the surrounding community.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear addressed the tragedy in a video message, offering condolences and urging unity. “Violence has no place in our commonwealth or our country. Please pray for the families affected and for our KSU students. Let’s also pray for a world where these things don’t happen. Thank you to our brave law enforcement who acted quickly to protect our people,” Beshear said.
Kentucky State University also released an official statement confirming the victims’ student status and expressing grief over the loss. “Two Kentucky State University students were shot, and we are heartbroken to report that one of the students succumbed to their injuries. The second student is in stable but critical condition and receiving medical care. Out of respect for the families, the University will not release identifying information at this time. Counseling and support services are available for students, faculty, and staff,” the statement said.
In response to the incident, KSU has canceled all classes, final exams, and campus activities for the remainder of the week. Students are permitted to return home if they choose, and counseling resources remain available for anyone impacted.
Community reaction has been swift. Frankfort City Commissioner Katima Smith-Willis urged residents to come together during the difficult moment. “During difficult moments such as this, I encourage us all to lean into respect, compassion, and care for one another. Kentucky State University is not just the university—it is our university, rooted deeply in our community,” she wrote.
Further updates are expected through official Kentucky State University channels as additional information is confirmed.
