The tragic shooting at Kentucky State University on Tuesday afternoon left one person dead and another in critical condition, disrupting final exams and sending the campus into an immediate lockdown. The shooting unfolded around 3:35 p.m. at Young Hall, a residence hall on campus, Frankfort Assistant Chief of Police Scott Tracy told CNN affiliate WDRB.
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Law enforcement agencies quickly secured the grounds as officers continued working through the scene. The university, a historically Black institution founded in 1886 and home to more than 2,200 students and 450 faculty and staff, remained locked down as police worked to ensure safety. A university official told WKYT that multiple people were injured, though their conditions have not yet been confirmed, as per a report.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear responded to the news, saying on X, “Let’s pray for those affected.”
We are aware of a reported shooting at Kentucky State University in Frankfort. At this time, we are aware of some injuries. We will share more information as available. Law enforcement are on scene, and a suspect has been arrested. Let’s pray for all those affected.
— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) December 9, 2025
What happened inside Young Hall?
Police confirmed that one victim died at the scene, while another remains in critical condition. Frankfort Police reported that a suspect is already in custody, as per a report by CNN.
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How is the campus responding?
University officials said they are “still in the process of gathering accurate and complete information” before releasing a full statement.
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Why are HBCUs facing repeated violence this season?
Tuesday’s shooting follows two separate incidents in October at other historically Black universities. Five people were injured near Howard University during homecoming weekend, while at least one person was killed and six injured at Pennsylvania’s Lincoln University just a day later.
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FAQs
Is the suspect in the KSU shooting in custody?
Yes, police confirmed the suspect has been detained.
Where did the shooting happen?
It occurred at Young Hall, a dorm on the Kentucky State University campus.