A 19-year-old man from Louisville was arrested after police discovered a firearm inside his bag on the campus of Kentucky State University, according to court records.
Weapon Discovered Near Campus Building
Authorities identified the suspect as Alonzo White, who now faces a charge of unlawful possession of a weapon on school property.
The incident unfolded Monday near Thorobred Hall, where a university police officer reportedly noticed an object resembling a firearm inside White’s backpack. After conducting a search, the officer recovered what was described as an AR-style pistol.
Arrest and Court Proceedings
White was taken into custody and booked into the local detention facility. Jail records later indicated he was no longer listed as an inmate.
He is scheduled to appear in Franklin District Court for a preliminary hearing in the coming days.
Officials have not confirmed whether White is a student at the university.
University Responds to Safety Concerns
In a public statement, Kentucky State University officials praised campus police for resolving the situation safely and emphasized their ongoing commitment to maintaining a secure learning environment.
The university noted that campus safety remains a top priority and pledged continued cooperation with law enforcement.
Incident Follows Previous Campus Shooting
The arrest comes months after a fatal shooting outside a dormitory at the university, which heightened concerns about safety on campus.
Following that incident, school officials said they would increase security measures—steps they say contributed to the swift response in this case.
Broader Challenges Facing the University
Beyond safety concerns, Kentucky State University is also facing financial uncertainty. State lawmakers are considering significant funding cuts that could reduce academic programs and place the institution under increased financial oversight.
Despite these challenges, university leaders say they will continue taking decisive action to ensure student and staff safety.