Post by : Meena Ariff

One student has died and another remains in critical condition following a shooting at Kentucky State University in Frankfort, Kentucky, on Tuesday, just days before winter break.

The suspect, a 48-year-old resident of Indiana who is not a student, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and assault. He is currently in Franklin County Regional Jail.

The student in critical condition is reported stable, and authorities have confirmed the shooting was not targeted.

All classes, exams, and campus activities have been suspended for the rest of the week. Students are allowed to return home, and further instructions will be shared by the university.

Campus police responded immediately, arresting the suspect moments after the first shots were fired. Local police confirmed the scene was secured within minutes and there is no ongoing threat.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear described the incident as an isolated attack on the historically Black university, located about 25 miles northwest of Lexington.

This incident marks the 73rd school shooting in the U.S. this year, according to national data. Kentucky State University, chartered in 1886, has over 2,200 students and 450 faculty members.

The shooting occurred around 3:10 p.m. near the Whitney M. Young Jr. residence hall. Victims’ names have not been released to protect their privacy. The university is offering counseling and support to all affected students and staff.

University President Koffi C. Akakpo called the shooting a “senseless tragedy” and urged prayers for the students and families impacted.

Police praised the quick and coordinated response of campus, local, and federal agencies, which prevented further harm.

The tragedy adds to a recent pattern of violence at historically Black colleges and universities, including incidents at Howard University and Lincoln University earlier this year.

#Global News