Parent Charged with Murder After Deadly KSU Shooting

UPDATE: A shocking shooting at Kentucky State University has left one student dead and another critically injured, prompting authorities to charge a parent with murder. Jacob Lee Bard, 48, from Evansville, Indiana, is accused of opening fire on December 9, 2025, during an altercation on campus.

The shooting took place around 3:10 PM in the Young Hall area, leading to a swift lockdown of the campus. Tragically, De’Jon Darrell Fox Jr., 19, succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to Frankfort Regional Medical Center. Another student, who has not yet been named, remains in intensive care.

Bard, who is the father of two other KSU students, was charged with murder and first-degree assault. Following his arrest by KSU Campus Police, he entered a not guilty plea during a court appearance on December 11 and was ordered held on a $1 million cash bond at the Franklin County Regional Jail.

Authorities have confirmed that the incident is isolated, stating there are currently no “active safety concerns” on the KSU campus. However, the community is left reeling, as classes, final exams, and all activities have been canceled for the remainder of the week.

In a heart-wrenching interview, Fox’s mother, April Terrance, expressed her devastation, 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 assist Fox’s family with funeral expenses, raising over $2,200 of its $3,500 goal so far.

Footage of the altercation has surfaced online, showing a physical fight between two groups. Authorities have verified its authenticity and are treating it as part of their ongoing investigation.

The Frankfort Police Department and the Franklin County Coroner’s Office are continuing their investigation into this tragic incident. The community is urged to stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.