The GBI has arrested and charged a Cairo man with murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime  in connection to the death of a Kennesaw State University Student.

Kennesaw State University officials released the following.

KENNESAW, Ga. (May19, 2024) — Kennesaw State University officials confirm that a female student was fatally shot following a dispute, which occurred in front of the Austin Residence Complex on the Kennesaw Campus yesterday afternoon.  The suspect then fled campus.

The suspect, identified as Samuel Harris, has been charged with murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Harris is not a Kennesaw State student.

At approximately 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 18, the Kennesaw State University Police Department issued a secure in place alert to the campus community about reports of an armed intruder on the Kennesaw Campus. The suspect was located and detained by Cobb County Police. The University issued an all-clear notification at approximately 4:43 p.m. KSUPD and GBI are working together on the investigation.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the victim's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time,” said KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig.

Kennesaw State University is providing support and resources to those affected by this tragedy.

  • KSU Counseling and Psychological Services’ on-campus offices are open from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday:
  • Kennesaw Campus: Kennesaw Hall, room 2401
  • Marietta Campus: Joe Mack Wilson Student Center, room A170

Students also can arrange for an appointment with a counselor by emailing [email protected] or calling KSU Counseling and Psychological Services at 470-578-6600 (Kennesaw Campus) or 470-578-7391 (Marietta Campus).

In addition to the counseling centers’ regular business hours, Kennesaw State offers:

  • A 24/7, 365-days-a-year mental health support line: 833-646-1526
  • An online wellness hub with educational content, self-help tools and resource links

To easily communicate any safety needs, KSU students, faculty and staff are encouraged to use the LiveSafe app, which provides a direct connection to University Police. 

The campus community can report any suspicious behavior to University Police:

In person: 

Building 351 on the Kennesaw Campus 

Building R2 (Norton Hall) the Marietta Campus 

Anonymous tip line: 470-578-6305 

By email: [email protected] 

By phone: 470-578-6666 

Contact

Director, Office of Public & Governmental Affairs Nelly Miles

[email protected]