Kennesaw State University student fatally shot in front of residence hall; suspect charged

A Kennesaw State University student was fatally shot Saturday after a dispute and a man has been arrested in connection to her death, the university confirmed in a statement.

The dispute happened in front of the Austin Residence Complex on the Kennesaw Campus, the university said. 

The university issued a secure in place alert on campus at 4 p.m. Saturday due to reports of an armed intruder. Cobb County Police found the suspect and detained him and by 4:43 p.m. the university issued an all-clear alert.

The university has identified the student killed as Alasia Franklin.

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

University police and the Georgia Bureau of Investigations are working on the case, the school said.

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KSU student wanted to be nurse practitioner

Kennesaw State University said in a news release that the suspect, Samuel Harris, is not a KSU student and has been charged with murder, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.

Loved ones described the victim, Franklin, as determined. They said she spoke up for others who were too afraid to do so for themselves. She worked in student government and wanted to become a nurse practitioner, Atlanta News First reported.

Her friend, Anthony Harrison, told FOX 5 Atlanta that he woke up and heard gunshots at the Austin Residence Complex. When he went outside and saw a woman injured, he called 911, not realizing it was Franklin, one of his friends.

"I couldn't even … I couldn't even recognize the way she looked," Harrison told FOX 5 Atlanta. "I couldn't recognize the way she looked, man. I stood right over her as I was on the phone. Like, that's something that's going to be with me for a long, long, long time."

University taking precautions following tragedy

After the shooting, the university reminded community members about KSU’s Counseling and Psychological Services office for emotional support.

Students also can arrange an appointment with a counselor by emailing counseling@kennesaw.edu.

Those on the Kennesaw campus can call KSU Counseling and Psychological Services at (470) 578-6600, while community members on the Marietta campus can call (470) 578-7391.

The university said there is also a 24/7, 365-days-a-year mental health support line at (833) 646-1526.

The university encouraged those on campus to report suspicious activity via the anonymous tip line at (470) 578-6305 or police@kennesaw.edu.

Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY's NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757. Follow her on Twitter at@SaleenMartin or email her atsdmartin@usatoday.com.