TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - An active shooter situation unfolded on April 17, 2025, at Florida State University (FSU), prompting immediate police response and an urgent shelter-in-place order for students and faculty. The emergency alert was issued at 12:02 p.m. EDT, instructing individuals on campus to lock their doors, stay away from windows, and prepare for further safety measures.
The alert specified that the shooter was reported in the vicinity of the Student Union. As chaos ensued, a video shared on social media captured students scrambling for cover amidst the blaring emergency sirens. Witnesses described the alarming scene, with one student reporting, "I was in the FSU Student Union. We were just evacuated by police and are safe. Sending fervent prayers to all impacted, and huge thank you to FSU police, Tallahassee police, and everyone who came to help."
In a subsequent alert sent at 12:30 p.m., the university reiterated the danger, stating, "Dangerous Situation: An active shooter has been reported in the area of Student Union. Police are on scene or on the way. Continue to seek shelter and await further instructions." An updated message followed at 12:50 p.m., confirming that police had responded to the active shooter call and urging everyone to remain vigilant for further updates.
As the situation developed, reports emerged of injuries. Capitol Reporter Forrest Saunders noted at 12:46 p.m. that multiple individuals were seen being loaded into ambulances outside the Student Union. He also reported witnessing one man being shackled by law enforcement before being taken from the scene. Meanwhile, Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare confirmed they were actively receiving and caring for FSU students.
In response to the unfolding crisis, all Leon County Schools initiated a precautionary lockout, ensuring the safety of students in the area as the investigation continued. The university, located at 75 North Woodward Avenue in Tallahassee, is home to more than 44,000 students and has a long history, having been founded in 1851.
As the situation remains fluid, authorities have not yet released details regarding the suspect or confirmed the number of injuries. The FSU community is on high alert, with many taking to social media to express concern and solidarity. One parent tweeted, "Please pray for FSU and Tallahassee and our college students as a confirmed active shooter is on campus at Florida State. Please pray for police."
This incident marks yet another tragic chapter in the ongoing issue of gun violence on U.S. campuses, raising questions about safety measures and emergency protocols in educational institutions. As the investigation unfolds, students and families are left grappling with fear and uncertainty.
In the wake of the alert, local news outlets, including FOX 35 Orlando and WTXL ABC 27, have dispatched crews to cover the story, ensuring that updates are communicated swiftly and accurately. The FSU community is urged to stay connected through official channels for real-time information as authorities continue to assess the situation.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available regarding the active shooter incident at Florida State University.
