Frankfort, KY – A shooting at Kentucky State University’s Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall on Tuesday afternoon resulted in the death of one student and critical injuries to another. Police have apprehended a suspect in connection with the incident. Officials confirmed the arrested individual is not a student at the university.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred at approximately 3:00 PM. Authorities have withheld the names of both the deceased student and the injured student pending family notification. The critically wounded student remains in stable condition, according to recent updates from university spokespersons.
Law Enforcement Action
Frankfort Assistant Chief of Police Scott Tracy confirmed the apprehension of the suspect, emphasizing the individual’s non-student status. Police units responded to the residence hall with speed and efficiency. Assistant Chief Tracy issued a statement indicating that law enforcement agencies consider this an isolated incident. He also assured the public there are no active safety concerns remaining on the campus. News footage from WLKY-TV in Louisville depicted numerous police vehicles gathered outside the dormitory complex, with crime scene tape cordoning off a central courtyard area.
Official Reactions and Support
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear addressed the situation through a public video message. Governor Beshear reiterated that the shooting “appears to be an isolated incident” and confirmed “there is no ongoing threat” to the community. Kentucky State University President Koffi C. Akakpo delivered remarks during a news conference held Tuesday evening. President Akakpo characterized the event as a “senseless tragedy” and expressed profound grief over the student’s death. He conveyed the immense difficulty faced when informing the parents of the affected students.
The university is actively engaging with the families of the victims. They are providing every available form of support. Comprehensive counseling and support services are also accessible to all students and staff members across the campus.
Campus Disruptions and Future Plans
In response to the tragedy, Kentucky State University announced the immediate cancellation of all classes, final examinations, and campus activities for the rest of the week. The university’s fall academic term was initially slated to conclude on Friday. Students have been given the option to return home. The administration stated that additional guidance and information will be communicated to the university community as soon as it becomes available.
Prior Incidents of Violence
This shooting marks the second incident of gunfire in the immediate vicinity of the university within the past four months. On August 17 , multiple shots were discharged from a vehicle operating near Whitney M. Young Jr. Hall. That previous event resulted in injuries to two individuals. Frankfort police reports confirmed that neither victim in the August incident was a student of the university. One victim received treatment for minor injuries, while the second sustained serious injuries. The dormitory itself and at least one vehicle suffered damage from gunfire during the earlier event.
About Kentucky State University
Kentucky State University operates as a public Historically Black University (HBCU) . The institution’s establishment was authorized by lawmakers in 1886. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, the university campus lies approximately 3.2 kilometers east of the state’s Capitol building. Kentucky State University currently serves an approximate student population of 2,200.