Crime
Kentucky State University Shooting Suspect Identified as 48-Year-Old Jacob Lee Bard
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky State University (KSU) remains on lockdown after a deadly shooting on campus Tuesday afternoon that left one student dead and another critically injured.
Authorities have confirmed that 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 confirmed that two students were shot. One student died from their injuries, while the second is listed in stable but critical condition and is receiving ongoing medical care.
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. He was taken into custody without further incident and has been booked in the Franklin County Regional Jail. Investigators confirmed that both victims were current KSU students.
Authorities credited the swift and coordinated response of local, state, and federal agencies for containing the situation almost immediately and preventing further harm.
Officials emphasized that the incident was isolated and that there is no continuing threat to the campus or surrounding community.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear addressed the tragedy in a video message, extending 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.”
Kentucky State University released an official statement confirming the victims’ student status and expressing profound 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.”
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 affected.
Community reaction has been swift, with Frankfort City Commissioner Katima Smith-Willis urging residents to come together during a moment of profound loss:
“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.”
Further updates will be released through official Kentucky State University channels as additional information becomes available.
OWINGS MILLS, Md. (Baltimore County) — Authorities are investigating a multiple-victim stabbing that left two people critically injured in Owings Mills.
According to preliminary information, Baltimore County Police and emergency medical personnel responded to the 12300 block of Greenspring Avenue following reports of a stabbing.
Upon arrival, first responders located two victims suffering from severe stab wounds, both classified as priority-one patients.
Emergency crews requested a medical helicopter due to the seriousness of the injuries.
A landing zone was established at Ridge Road and Greenspring Avenue.
One victim was transported by medevac, while the second victim was transported by ground ambulance to a nearby trauma center.
Initial reports indicate that the caller may have stabbed both of his parents.
Police confirmed that a possible suspect has been detained at the scene.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or the suspect.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.