A horrifying shooting rocked the Florida State University (FSU) campus in Tallahassee on Thursday, claiming two lives and injuring six more. The incident, which unfolded just before noon, has sparked widespread grief, urgent investigations, and critical questions about access to firearms.
Suspect Identified: A Student and Son of a Deputy
Law enforcement confirmed the identity of the suspected shooter as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, a student at FSU. Ikner was neutralized by authorities and taken to a local hospital for treatment. Investigators later revealed that he had used a firearm belonging to his mother—Jessica Ikner, a longtime deputy with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff Walt McNeil praised Jessica Ikner’s career, calling her service “exceptional,” but noted the unfortunate access her son had to her weapon. Authorities are continuing to probe how the firearm came into his possession and whether any procedural lapses contributed to the tragedy.
Victims and Active Investigation
While the two people killed were not students at FSU, their identities have not yet been publicly disclosed. The area surrounding the campus remains an active crime scene as investigators work to gather evidence and confirm that Ikner acted alone.
“There is no ongoing threat to the community,” assured Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell during a press briefing.
Campus Lockdown and Student Response
Immediately after the shooting, FSU went into lockdown. Students, faculty, and staff were urged to shelter in place while law enforcement secured the campus. The FBI, ATF, and other federal agencies quickly responded from nearby field offices to assist local authorities.
FSU sophomore Ben Veytsman shared his experience with Fox News Digital, recalling that he had just left a therapy appointment when chaos erupted. “It didn’t feel real,” he said. “It felt like a drill.” Veytsman, along with other students, took cover in a nearby staff lounge before being safely escorted out.
Another student, Cole Summers, was at the student union when he heard gunshots. “I ran out the back and heard more shots near the entrance,” he said, describing a scene of panic and confusion.
A Community in Mourning
FSU President Richard McCullough addressed the campus in an emotional statement. “This is a tragic and senseless act of violence,” he wrote on X. “We lean on one another. We are Florida State. We are family. And we stand together.”
In light of the events, all classes were canceled through Friday. Athletic events scheduled in Tallahassee were also postponed until further notice.
Florida officials, including Sen. Rick Scott and Attorney General Pam Bondi, extended their condolences and assured ongoing support for the university. Gov. Ron DeSantis confirmed that state law enforcement was working closely with federal teams to manage the aftermath.
Faith, Fear, and Gratitude
FSU meteorology student Christopher Malave expressed deep gratitude after surviving the ordeal. “I truly believe that God protected me today,” he said. “All things considered, I’m safe and so are my friends. I’m just blessed.”
Such sentiments echo the collective relief among those spared, but also underline the trauma that students and faculty are now left to process.
How Authorities Are Responding
As federal agents comb the scene and interview witnesses, the investigation continues into how Ikner accessed a service-issued firearm. The situation raises critical questions for law enforcement families and the protocols surrounding secure storage of weapons at home.
The ATF confirmed agents from its Tampa division are working alongside FBI teams from both the Jacksonville and Tallahassee offices. Authorities have asked the public to come forward with any tips or firsthand video footage that could aid in the investigation.
Political and Legal Reactions
National leaders have taken notice, with Rep. Neal Dunn urging caution and offering thanks to first responders. Former President Donald Trump was briefed on the tragedy and called it “horrible,” voicing support for law enforcement on the ground.
Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized that public safety is the highest priority as investigations unfold.
Florida State University: A Campus Now Healing
Spanning over 485 acres, with more than 44,000 students and 16,000 employees, FSU is one of the state’s flagship universities. The normally vibrant campus now finds itself in mourning, as students and faculty face the emotional aftermath of a devastating day.
University mental health services have been mobilized to support students, many of whom are still trying to make sense of what happened.
Moving Forward with Unity
In the coming days, Florida State will shift from crisis mode to recovery. There will be vigils, tributes, and efforts to strengthen campus security. But above all, there will be a focus on community—on standing together in the face of tragedy.
As President McCullough said, “Now, we mourn together. We lean on one another.”
