Kentucky University Shooting Leaves Student Dead, Suspect in Custody

One student has tragically died, and another remains in critical condition following a shooting at Kentucky State University (KSU) on Tuesday afternoon, officials have confirmed.

A suspect, not affiliated with the university, is currently in custody, according to the Frankfort Police Department.

The incident prompted an immediate lockdown of the KSU campus as authorities responded to reports of an “active aggressor” in a residence hall located on the south side of the campus.

Police have indicated that the shooting appears to be an isolated incident and not a mass shooting.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear first shared the news on X, stating, “Violence has no place in our commonwealth or country. Let’s 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.”

Responding agencies included the Frankfort Police Department, KSU campus police, and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.

During a press conference held Tuesday evening, Assistant Police Chief Scott Tracy of the Frankfort Police Department revealed that campus police swiftly apprehended the suspect before other authorities arrived on the scene. He added that local, state, and federal agencies are now collaborating on the investigation.

“Out of respect for both students and their families, the University will not release identifying or additional medical information at this time,” KSU stated on its website. “We are in close contact with the families and are providing every available support to them.”

Classes, final exams, and all campus activities have been cancelled for the remainder of the week, and students are being offered the option to return home, the university’s website details.

KSU President Koffi C. Akakpo, speaking at the press conference, described the shooting as a “senseless tragedy.” “As a parent, I cannot imagine receiving the call I placed today to the parents,” he said.

Counselling and support services are readily available to students, faculty, and staff impacted by the shooting, according to the university.

The KSU campus spans approximately 1,000 acres and is home to over 2,200 students and 450 faculty and staff members.

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