A Cairo man stands accused of the fatal shooting of a Kennesaw State University student after an altercation outside a campus residence, law enforcement officials stated. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed the arrest of Samuel Harris, the man charged with murder, aggravated assault, and firearm possession during the commission of a crime.
The incident, which sent shockwaves through the Kennesaw State community, happened in broad daylight in front of the Austin Residence Complex. The university's officials, shaken by the tragedy, have reached out to the victim's family and offered condolences. “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the victim's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time,” stated KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig, according to the GBI.
According to the GBI's report, the tragic event unfolded on the afternoon of May 18. The Kennesaw State University Police Department promptly issued a secure in place alert. After fleeing the scene, the suspect was apprehended by Cobb County Police, and the university lifted the security alert shortly after. Harris, implicated in the senseless act of violence, is not affiliated with the university as a student.
In the aftermath of the distressing event, the university has mobilized to support those affected. Kennesaw State University provides resources, including counseling services and a 24/7 mental health support line to help students navigate through their grief and trauma. KSU Counseling and Psychological Services are accessible at appointed locations on both the Kennesaw and Marietta campuses, offering a port of call for any student in need, according to details shared by the school.
KSU authorities are also promoting the use of the LiveSafe app, a tool designed to improve campus safety by offering students, faculty, and staff a streamlined way to communicate with University Police. Contact information and an anonymous tip line were made available for reporting any suspicious activity.
