Tragedy Strikes: Kentucky Theology Student Found Strangled in Dorm Room
In a shocking incident that has left the community reeling, Josiah Kilman, an 18-year-old theology student at Campbellsville University, was found strangled to death in his dorm room. The alleged perpetrator, Charles “Zeke” Escalera, a wrestling teammate of Kilman’s, was arrested wearing bloodied clothing and reportedly confessed to the crime.
The details surrounding this heinous act are still emerging, but what is clear is that Kilman’s life was cut short in a senseless act of violence. The Kentucky State Medical Examiner’s Office has determined that Kilman’s cause of death was asphyxia by manual strangulation. It is a tragedy that such a young and promising life was taken away so abruptly.
The motive behind this shocking killing has yet to be revealed, leaving many questions unanswered. Did Kilman and Escalera have a prior altercation or a strained relationship? According to Campbellsville Detective Jeremy Burton, there is no evidence of an “acrimonious relationship” between the two. It is perplexing to imagine what could have driven Escalera to commit such a terrible act.
Escalera, who lived in the same building as Kilman, was known to be a secluded individual who didn’t interact much with his wrestling teammates or dorm mates. His arrest came after a 12-hour manhunt, during which he was found hiding in a barn. The fact that he was apprehended with blood on his clothes, the same clothes captured on the dorm building’s CCTV, raises chilling questions about his involvement in Kilman’s death.
During his interview with Campbellsville detectives, Escalera allegedly confessed to strangling Kilman, describing in detail how he caused the young student’s demise. The slow response time and seemingly odd behavior displayed by Escalera during the interview only add to the mystery surrounding this tragic event.
It is important to remember Josiah Kilman for who he was—a gifted athlete, a devout Christian, and a beloved member of his community. Friends and family have described him as kind-hearted, humble, and loyal. His untimely death has left a void in the lives of those who knew him.
As the investigation continues, we can only hope that justice will be served, and the truth behind this senseless act of violence will come to light. It is a reminder that even in places meant for growth, learning, and community like universities, tragedy can strike. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Josiah Kilman’s loved ones during this difficult time.
