What should’ve been a normal spring Thursday turned into a nightmare at Florida State University, where a shooting claimed two lives and left six others injured.
Among the victims were Robert Morales, a longtime dining coordinator at FSU, and Tiru Chabba, a regional vice president with Aramark who was visiting from South Carolina for work meetings.
The campus was thrown into chaos when 20-year-old student Phoenix Ikner opened fire in broad daylight, sending students running for cover.
Police were quick to respond, shooting Ikner before taking him into custody.
He’s currently being treated in the hospital.
Victims Remembered: A Boss and a Beloved Colleague
Tiru Chabba, 45, had dedicated over 25 years to Aramark and had recently stepped into a leadership role overseeing college dining services across the Southeast.
Colleagues remembered him as a humble and hardworking leader.
Tragically, he happened to be at FSU for business meetings when the shooting occurred.
Robert Morales, a familiar face on campus for nearly a decade, was described by friends and family as a devoted family man who loved his job.
His brother Ricardo shared an emotional tribute, saying, “Today we lost my younger brother. He loved his job, his wife, and his daughter.”
Students and Staff Traumatized by the Violence
FSU staff were deeply shaken by the attack. Anthony Cicatello, a restaurant manager on campus, spoke about the chaos inside the dining hall, where middle school students touring the university had to hide under tables.
“I can only imagine what those little kids were going through,” he shared.
Todd Gardener, another Aramark executive who lives in Tallahassee, posted about the emotional toll the day took on him.
His own daughter, a student at FSU, was safe—but he had lost a friend. “I’m angry,” he admitted. “I’m so mad I want to scream.”
A History of Hate and a Weapon From Home
Details have since emerged about the shooter, Phoenix Ikner, who is reportedly the son of Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy Jessica Ikner.
Authorities confirmed he used one of his mother’s privately-owned firearms during the attack.
Former classmates painted a disturbing picture of Ikner’s background.
Reid Seybold, who once led a political discussion group that included Ikner, said he had to kick him out due to his repeated use of white supremacist and far-right rhetoric.
“He crossed the line. He wasn’t welcome,” Seybold told NBC.
Legal Action and Calls for Justice
Chabba’s family has already hired civil rights attorney Bakari Sellers and Jim Bannister to take legal action against all parties responsible.
Sellers issued a passionate statement, saying, “Instead of celebrating Easter with their loved one, they’re now living a nightmare. We’re going to fight for justice that honors Tiru’s memory.”
The shooting has sparked outrage and sorrow, both locally and nationally, with many calling for answers about how a student could get access to a law enforcement weapon and why warning signs about his extremist beliefs weren’t taken seriously.
A Community Mourns Together
As the investigation continues, the Tallahassee community and the wider FSU family are left to pick up the pieces.
Well-known chef Art Smith, who once worked at FSU, expressed his heartbreak over the loss of Morales, whom he called “a kind man.”
Morales was also one of the founding members of Gordos Cuban Cuisine, a much-loved local restaurant.
Co-owner Eddie Agramonte remembered him fondly and expressed his sorrow: “My heart breaks for all the family and friends of Robert Morales.”
What Happens Next?
As of Friday, two of the six injured victims were expected to be discharged from Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.
Others were said to be improving, with one still in fair condition.
Meanwhile, the campus remains shaken, as students, staff, and parents ask how such a tragedy could happen.
Police are continuing their investigation into the motive, the gunman’s access to firearms, and how he slipped through the cracks.
But for now, FSU is mourning—holding tightly to the memories of those lost and hoping for healing in the days ahead.