In a shocking incident at Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee, a gunman opened fire from an orange Hummer, injuring at least six people on Thursday, April 17, 2025. The attack unfolded around midday ET, sending students and faculty into a state of panic as the sound of gunfire echoed across the campus.
Witnesses reported that the unidentified shooter, described as a fair-haired man wearing an orange t-shirt and khaki shorts, fired approximately 15 rounds. One witness, McKenzie Heeter, told NBC News, "I saw him firing at students and faculty. It was terrifying." Initial reports from local media outlet WFTV suggested that two gunmen were involved, with four victims killed; however, these claims were later revised to indicate that six individuals were injured, one of whom is in critical condition.
The chaos began when the gunman reportedly exited the student union, brandishing a handgun. Another witness recounted hearing what sounded like automatic gunfire. As students fled for safety, social media was flooded with distressing footage from the scene, showing terrified individuals cowering under desks and others being carried away by paramedics.
Emergency services, including ambulances and law enforcement, rushed to the scene shortly after the incident. Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare confirmed that they were treating at least six victims, with efforts underway to provide the highest level of care. The university promptly issued an active shooter alert, advising students to stay indoors and avoid the area.
As the situation unfolded, police sources indicated that they believed there was only one shooter involved. The gunman was also shot during the incident and may have been among those transported to the hospital for treatment. A grey sedan was found by police, containing a weapon that authorities believe could be linked to the shooting. Several firearms, including a shotgun and pistol, were seized from the scene.
FSU senior Will Schatz was in the Strozier Library when he heard the gunfire. "I could have sworn I saw a cop running after somebody and screaming something when we ran out," he recalled. "Then when I got out, I heard seven to eight gunshots. I'm not sure if that was the shooter shooting or if the cops shot the shooter." His account reflects the confusion and fear experienced by many during the incident.
In the aftermath, law enforcement began actively clearing rooms on the main campus, a process that officials indicated could take several hours. Students were eventually allowed to return to their residence halls as police declared that the threat had been neutralized. However, the Student Union and its surrounding area remained an active crime scene, with authorities urging individuals to stay away.
The situation prompted a lockdown of nearby Leon County School District buildings as a precaution. The FBI announced its involvement in the investigation, joining local law enforcement in piecing together the events that led to this tragic episode.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his condolences, stating, "My prayers are with our FSU family," shortly after the shooting. President Trump also commented on the incident, noting that he had been "fully briefed" on the unfolding situation.
This is not the first time FSU has faced a mass shooting. In November 2014, an alumnus opened fire in the Strozier Library, resulting in the deaths of two students and a university employee before being killed by police. This history adds a layer of sorrow and concern for the FSU community as they grapple with the aftermath of the latest violence.
As the investigation continues, students, faculty, and staff at Florida State University are left to process the trauma of the day. Many are turning to each other for support, sharing their experiences and comforting one another in the wake of fear and uncertainty. The campus, once a place of learning and growth, now bears the scars of a harrowing event that will not soon be forgotten.
In the wake of this shooting, discussions about campus safety and gun control are likely to reignite. Advocates on both sides of the debate will undoubtedly seize upon this incident to bolster their arguments, as the nation continues to grapple with the pervasive issue of gun violence. The FSU community, while mourning the injuries and the fear experienced today, will also be looking for answers and solutions to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the sun sets on a day marked by tragedy, the resilience of the Florida State University community shines through. Together, they will face the challenges ahead, united in their hope for healing and change.
