Suspect in Custody as Investigation Continues Into Death of Campbellsville University Student

CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. (WBKO/Gray News) – Authorities in Kentucky are working diligently to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of an 18-year-old student at Campbellsville University.

The incident unfolded in the early hours of Saturday, prompting a swift response from Campbellsville City Police after 18-year-old Josiah Malachi Kilman was discovered unresponsive in his dorm room. Despite efforts to save him, Kilman was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, as reported by WBKO.

As the investigation progressed, authorities secured an arrest warrant for murder against 21-year-old Charles E. Escalera.

Following a report of a suspicious individual in a barn at the Green and Taylor County border around 5:15 p.m. on Saturday, authorities swiftly identified the man as Escalera. He was apprehended by Kentucky State Police without incident.

Escalera has since been detained at the Taylor County Detention Center, facing charges of murder and burglary, according to online records.

While the cause of Kilman’s death remains undetermined, his body has been transferred to the state medical examiner’s office in Louisville for a thorough autopsy.

In response to the tragedy, University President Dr. Joseph Hopkins expressed deep sorrow, stating that the campus community is grieving and their hearts are heavy with sadness.

To provide support during this difficult time, the student counseling center on campus is open, offering counselling services to those in need.

In light of the tragic event, all campus activities and sporting events have been cancelled. Students and staff have been encouraged to come together for prayer at the Ransdell Chapel.