Grand jury declines to indict man in shooting that killed teen at Kentucky State University

In a highly publicized case that has drawn national attention, a Franklin County grand jury has declined to indict Jacob Lee Bard, the man charged in connection with the tragic shooting at Kentucky State University that resulted in the death of 19-year-old De’Jon Fox Jr. and left another student critically injured. The decision comes after weeks of intense scrutiny from the public, media, and university community, highlighting the complex legal and emotional landscape surrounding violent incidents on college campuses.

The shooting occurred on December 9, 2025, in a residential area near the university campus. Authorities reported that Bard fired his weapon during an encounter that allegedly involved threats to his family, resulting in the fatal shooting of Fox and serious injuries to another student. The incident prompted immediate campus lockdowns, an investigation by local law enforcement, and a wave of concern across the student body, faculty, and families connected to the university.

Bard was initially charged with murder and first-degree assault. His attorneys presented a defense that he acted in self-defense, citing threats against his family members at the time of the shooting. According to his legal team, Bard’s actions were a protective measure rather than a premeditated attack, a perspective the grand jury ultimately found credible. After reviewing evidence, witness testimonies, and legal arguments, the grand jury decided not to indict Bard, leading to his release from custody. His bond has been refunded, and he currently faces no pending criminal charges in relation to this incident.

The decision has sparked mixed reactions from the community. Many residents and students expressed outrage and grief over the loss of a young life and questioned the adequacy of the legal outcome. Vigils and public gatherings were organized to honor the memory of De’Jon Fox Jr., highlighting the profound impact of the shooting on the university community. At the same time, some supporters of Bard emphasize the importance of self-defense rights, noting that the grand jury’s decision reflects the complexity of determining culpability in situations involving perceived threats to personal safety.

Campus officials have expressed a renewed commitment to student safety and mental health support. In statements issued following the grand jury’s decision, Kentucky State University administrators reaffirmed their dedication to providing counseling services, enhancing security measures, and working with local law enforcement to prevent future incidents. The university continues to grapple with the emotional aftermath of the tragedy while striving to maintain a safe learning environment for students.

The case also underscores broader societal issues related to gun violence, campus safety, and the legal interpretation of self-defense claims. Incidents such as this one highlight the delicate balance between individual rights and community protection, raising questions about how to prevent future tragedies while respecting legal due process. Experts on criminal justice and campus safety note that each case carries unique circumstances, and grand jury decisions often reflect the difficulty of applying the law to complex, emotionally charged events.

For families affected by the shooting, the decision may bring a mixture of emotions, from relief that the legal process was completed to frustration or sadness over the outcome. Community leaders stress the need for continued dialogue, trauma-informed support, and advocacy for policies that address violence prevention on and near college campuses. They also emphasize the importance of fostering open communication between students, parents, university officials, and law enforcement to create a safer and more responsive environment.

The Kentucky State University shooting serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of proactive measures to protect students and families. While legal outcomes are determined by the judicial system, the human impact of such events extends far beyond courtrooms, affecting communities for years. In the wake of this incident, Kentucky State University and Franklin County residents are seeking ways to heal, honor the memory of those lost, and prevent similar tragedies in the future.

In conclusion, the grand jury’s decision not to indict Jacob Lee Bard in the Kentucky State University shooting case reflects the complexities of self-defense law and the challenges inherent in addressing campus violence. While the decision has been met with varied reactions, it underscores the ongoing need for safety measures, mental health support, and community engagement to prevent future incidents and support those affected by tragedy. The incident serves as both a legal precedent and a reminder of the broader societal responsibility to safeguard students and young adults.