In a tragic incident that has shaken the Florida State University (FSU) community, a shooting occurred on the campus on Thursday, April 17, 2025, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to six others. The suspected shooter, identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, is a student at FSU and the son of a Leon County sheriff's deputy.
The chaos began just before noon when Ikner allegedly opened fire near the student union building. According to Florida State University Police Chief Jason Trumbower, the first active shooter alert was sent out at 12:01 p.m., just minutes after the shooting commenced. "FSU police responded immediately, engaged, neutralized, and apprehended the shooter," Trumbower stated during a press conference.
Ikner was reportedly armed with his mother’s former service weapon, which she had purchased after transitioning to a new firearm. The weapon used in the shooting was a handgun, though a shotgun was also found at the scene. Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil confirmed that Ikner had access to the weapon due to his family ties within the sheriff's office, where his mother has served for 18 years.
During the incident, at least six people were transported to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital with gunshot wounds. One victim is reported to be in critical condition, while the others are in serious condition. Notably, the deceased victims were not FSU students, as confirmed by law enforcement officials.
Witnesses described a scene of panic as students fled the area. Ryan Cedergren, a 21-year-old communications student, recounted how he and others hid in a bowling alley within the student union. "In that moment, it was survival," he said. Another student, Chris Pento, who was on a campus tour, described hearing gunfire and the immediate chaos that ensued.
As the situation unfolded, FSU implemented a lockdown protocol, urging students and faculty to shelter in place. The university canceled all classes and events through Friday, April 18, and announced that all sports events would be suspended through Sunday, April 20.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his condolences via social media, stating, "Our prayers are with our FSU family and state law enforcement is actively responding." President Donald Trump also commented on the situation, calling it a "horrible thing" and confirming he had been briefed on the incident.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the FBI has joined local law enforcement in the investigation, with the agency establishing a digital tips hotline for the public to provide information. Sheriff McNeil described the shooting as a "heinous crime" and extended condolences to the families affected by the violence. "It’s a tragic day for Florida State University," said FSU President Richard McCullough, expressing heartbreak over the events.
As the investigation continues, authorities have emphasized the importance of community support and mental health resources for students and families affected by the tragedy. The university's Donald L. Tucker Center is providing counseling and health care services to those in need.
As the campus remains a crime scene, FSU has advised students to avoid the student union and surrounding areas, which are still considered active crime scenes. The Leon County School District has also placed all 42 schools on lockdown as a precautionary measure.
This incident marks yet another tragic chapter in the ongoing issue of gun violence in educational institutions. The FSU community, which includes approximately 44,000 students, is grappling with the emotional aftermath of this shooting, reminiscent of past tragedies that have affected other campuses across the nation.
In a poignant reflection, Josh Gallagher, a survivor of the 2018 Parkland shooting, shared his thoughts on social media, stating, "After living through the MSD shooting in 2018, I never thought it would hit close to home again." His sentiments echo the fears and anxieties of many students who have experienced similar traumatic events.
As the university and local authorities work to process this tragedy, the focus remains on healing and support for those impacted. The community is left to grapple with the questions surrounding gun access, mental health, and safety in educational environments.
In the wake of this devastating event, the FSU community is rallying together, demonstrating resilience and solidarity in the face of tragedy. The investigation into the shooting will continue, with updates expected as law enforcement gathers more information. For now, the focus is on supporting the victims, their families, and the entire university community as they navigate this challenging time.
