TALLAHASSEE, FL — Florida State University Shaken by Shooting Near Student Union; Six Wounded, One Dead
Tallahassee, Florida — Tragedy struck the Florida State University (FSU) campus Tuesday afternoon when an active shooter opened fire near the Student Union, wounding six individuals and leaving at least one person dead. Authorities have identified the alleged shooter as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, an FSU student and the son of longtime Leon County Sheriff Jessica Ikner.
The incident unfolded just after 2 p.m., when reports of gunfire sent students and staff into a panic. The university was placed on an immediate lockdown, with alerts urging everyone on campus to shelter in place while law enforcement responded. Witnesses described scenes of chaos, with students fleeing across the quad and barricading themselves inside buildings.
Tallahassee Police and FSU campus security arrived on the scene within minutes. The suspect, Phoenix Ikner, was confronted near the Student Union and was ultimately taken into custody without further injury to others. Authorities have not yet released a motive for the shooting, though early reports suggest it may have stemmed from a personal dispute.
The identities of the victims have not yet been made public. Officials have confirmed that six people suffered gunshot wounds of varying severity. At least two victims are in critical condition at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare. Tragically, one individual succumbed to their injuries at the scene.
The involvement of Phoenix Ikner, whose mother, Sheriff Jessica Ikner, is a highly respected figure in local law enforcement, has sent additional shockwaves through the Tallahassee community. Sheriff Ikner, visibly shaken, released a brief statement through her office Tuesday evening, asking for prayers for all those affected and for privacy as her family navigates this devastating situation.
“This is a tragedy on every level — as a community, as a campus, and personally for me and my family,” Sheriff Ikner said in her statement. “My heart is broken for the victims, their families, and for everyone touched by today’s senseless violence.”
FSU President Richard McCullough also addressed the university community in a somber message Tuesday night, vowing to support the victims and their families and promising a full review of campus safety protocols.
“We are devastated by today’s events,” McCullough said. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected. We are working closely with law enforcement and will ensure that every resource is made available to our students, faculty, and staff.”
Classes at FSU have been canceled for the remainder of the week, and grief counseling services have been expanded on campus to help students and staff cope with the trauma. A candlelight vigil is being planned for later this week to honor the victims and begin the healing process.
Ongoing Investigation
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has taken over the investigation, alongside the Tallahassee Police Department and campus security. Officials have confirmed that Phoenix Ikner acted alone and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Investigators are combing through Ikner’s digital footprint, academic records, and social connections to piece together what led to the horrific attack.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information or video footage from around the time of the shooting to come forward to aid the investigation.
A Campus and Community in Mourning
The FSU community, known for its spirit and resilience, is reeling from the violence that shattered a normal afternoon. Messages of support and solidarity have poured in from across the state and the nation, with other universities, public officials, and community leaders expressing their condolences.
As Tallahassee mourns, questions linger about how such a tragedy could occur — and what must be done to prevent future acts of violence, even in places long considered safe havens for learning and community.
More updates will be provided as this developing story continues to unfold.
If you are in need of support, resources are available:
- FSU Counseling Center: 24-hour crisis support at (850) 644-TALK (8255)
- National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, confidential support