Keenum statement on death of student Kaleb Barker

September 17, 2013

The following is a statement from Mississippi State University President Mark E. Keenum regarding the tragic death of MSU freshman Kaleb D. Barker. Barker died from injuries received in a one-vehicle accident early today [Tuesday, Sept. 17] near the MSU campus in Starkville.

Barker was a freshman kinesiology major from Lucedale.

"The Mississippi State University family is heartbroken today over this very tragic accident," said Keenum. "Kaleb was a young man with a great deal of promise. We feel a deep sense of grief and our thoughts and prayers will remain with Kaleb's family and his many friends in Lucedale and here at MSU."

The Starkville Police Department investigated the accident.

For additional information, contact Sid Salter at MSU University Relations at 662-325-7454 or 601-507-8004.