TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — An active shooter was reported on the campus of Florida State University (FSU) on Thursday, April 17, 2025, prompting urgent alerts and a swift police response. The situation unfolded around noon, with the shooter reportedly located in the area of the Student Union, a central hub for students and staff.
In a series of alerts sent via the university's emergency notification system, officials advised students and staff to seek shelter immediately, stating, "Lock and stay away from all doors and windows and be prepared to take additional protective measures." As the situation developed, students were seen evacuating the campus with their hands raised, a precautionary measure as law enforcement officers secured the area.
Local media reports indicated that at least four individuals had been hospitalized as a result of the shooting. A spokesperson from Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare confirmed that the hospital was actively treating patients linked to the incident, although specific details regarding their conditions were not immediately available. Sarah Cannon, a representative from the hospital, stated, "At this time, details are still unfolding, and we do not yet have specific information to share. However, we want to assure the community that our teams are fully mobilized and prepared to provide the highest level of care and support to all those affected."
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as police responded to the emergency. Forrest Saunders, a local reporter, recounted seeing a man being "shackled" by law enforcement before being taken away. Additionally, cellphone videos captured students running through traffic while sirens blared in the background, heightening the sense of urgency.
According to the university’s social media updates, one person was taken into custody, although it remains unclear whether that individual was the shooter. The FBI has also joined local law enforcement in the investigation, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
As the campus went into lockdown, reports of gunfire echoed through the area. A witness recounted hearing automatic gunfire during the unfolding events. This prompted not only FSU to take immediate action but also nearby Leon County schools and daycares, which were placed under lockdown as a precaution.
In response to the crisis, FSU announced the cancellation of all classes and events for the day, urging individuals who were not already on campus to avoid coming to the area. The university's alerts stressed the importance of safety and encouraged anyone needing immediate assistance to contact emergency services.
As the situation developed, the Tallahassee Fire Department deployed teams to the scene, although no details were provided regarding the transport of individuals from the campus. Eyewitness accounts painted a picture of a tense environment, with one student describing the rapid movement of people across campus in response to the alerts.
Rep. Christine Hunchofsky, a member of the House Education and Employment Committee, mentioned the FSU shooting during a discussion on a new bill aimed at improving school security. She reflected on the lasting impact of such tragedies, recalling the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in 2018. "This is heartbreak and grief and trauma and loss that stays with people forever," she remarked, emphasizing the need for legislative action to enhance safety in educational institutions.
As the day progressed, updates from FSU and local authorities continued to emerge, with the situation being described as fluid and ongoing. The community remained on high alert, awaiting further information regarding the incident and the condition of those injured.
The events at Florida State University are a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by educational institutions in ensuring the safety of their students and staff. As investigations continue, both local and national conversations around gun violence and campus security are likely to intensify.
This breaking news story will be updated as more information becomes available. For those in the area, it is crucial to stay informed through reliable news sources and university communications.
