Florida State University (FSU) has lifted its shelter‑in‑place order after gunfire near the busy Student Union sent students and staff scrambling for cover on Thursday afternoon.
At least two people have tragically lost their lives in a mass shooting according to WFTV, and at least six individuals have been injured, including the suspect. The Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare Hospital has reported that one of the victims is in critical condition.
A single gunman opened fire near the campus’s student union. The suspect has been arrested and is currently in the hospital. He has been identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, the son of a Leon County Sheriff's deputy.
All classes, athletic events, and on‑campus activities scheduled for Thursday have been cancelled.
FSU first alerted students to an active shooter just after noon local time.
Panic quickly spread as messages flashed across phones telling everyone to “lock and stay away from all doors and windows.”
Police and other first responders converged on the north‑end Student Union, a popular hub on campus with restaurants and study spaces.
While the immediate threat appears to be over, Tallahassee police say the investigation is only beginning.
Officers are collecting witness statements and combing security video to piece together a timeline of events.
They have not released the suspect’s name or a possible motive.
University president Richard McCullough thanked first responders for their swift action and promised counselling services for anyone shaken by the ordeal.
McCullough urged the campus community to monitor official alerts for the all‑clear and any updates on class schedules for Friday.
President Donald Trump said, "It's a shame, horrible thing."