KSU community holds vigil honoring De’Jon Fox as family shares memories of the 19-year-old student

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Students, friends, and community members gathered Wednesday at the site of the Kentucky State University campus shooting to honor the life of 19-year-old De’Jon Darrell Fox, Jr.

KSU officials say Fox, a sophomore Business Administration major, was known across campus for his creativity, style, humor, and kindness. His death has shaken the university community, prompting an outpouring of grief and support.

Fox’s mother, Chardnae Cleveland, spoke tearfully about the moment she learned her son had been shot.

“They say he died I think at 4:17. I think I got the call at 3:20. I never would have made it in time,” she said.

She remembered her son as someone who brought joy everywhere he went.

“All he do is make people laugh. I don’t know too many people who dislike him. How could you dislike him? Like he gonna get on your nerves. Until you like him,” she said, drawing soft laughter from those gathered—an echo of Fox’s lasting impact.

Funeral arrangements for Fox have not yet been announced.

A GoFundMe has been created to assist the family with expenses; the goal is set at $2,000.