On Thursday, a devastating mass shooting unfolded at Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee, leaving two individuals dead and several others injured.
The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, was named in a press conference held by officials later that day.
Authorities revealed that Ikner is the son of Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy Jessica Ikner, and had access to one of her weapons during the incident.
The Incident and Aftermath
The shooting took place around midday near the campus’s student union, with witnesses describing the chaos that followed.
One onlooker reported seeing a young man exit the building with a handgun, while another witness recalled hearing what sounded like automatic gunfire.
Social media was soon flooded with distressing footage and images, showing students scrambling for safety and paramedics carrying victims to safety.
Students took shelter under desks in classrooms, sharing footage of the terrifying situation as law enforcement worked to secure the area.
Authorities advised anyone in the vicinity to remain indoors as panic spread across the campus.
Evacuations and Medical Response
As authorities worked to evacuate students, many were seen trying to contact loved ones, their faces etched with worry.
Florida State University confirmed that all classes and events were canceled for the day.
Meanwhile, Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare reported that several victims were being treated, with medical staff mobilized to provide the highest level of care.
Investigation and Law Enforcement Actions
In the midst of the lockdown, law enforcement found a grey sedan containing a weapon believed to be linked to the shooting.
Police have seized several firearms, including a shotgun and a pistol, and arrested the suspect who was found with a weapon in their possession.
The FBI is now assisting with the ongoing investigation.
FSU senior Will Schatz described the chaotic scene as he was in the Strozier Library when he saw students rushing out of the building, followed by the sound of gunshots.
He recalled seeing what appeared to be a police officer chasing a suspect and hearing shots ring out.
It remains unclear whether the shots were fired by the shooter or law enforcement.
FSU’s History with Tragedy
This isn’t the first time FSU has been rocked by gun violence. In November 2014, an alumnus opened fire in the Strozier Library, killing an employee and two students before being shot by police.
The campus is still reeling from this latest tragedy.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Measures
At the time of the press conference, law enforcement continued to clear rooms across the main campus, a process that was expected to take several hours.
The Student Union and surrounding areas remain an active crime scene, and officials warned students not to return to retrieve personal belongings at this time.
Tallahassee Fire Department has taken charge of the campus, and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office deployed a helicopter to assist in the search.
Nearby schools in the Leon County School District were also placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure.
Government Reactions and Community Support
Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his condolences, saying that his “prayers are with the FSU family.”
President Trump also responded, confirming that he had been briefed on the situation and was monitoring the developments closely.
FSU’s Impact on the Community
Florida State University, located in Florida’s state capital, is home to around 45,000 students.
Known for its rich history and distinguished alumni—including actor Burt Reynolds and musician Jim Morrison—the university is a vital part of the Tallahassee community.
The shooting has shaken not only the FSU campus but also the broader region.