On Thursday, April 17, 2025, a shooting at Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee left at least six people injured, with one in critical condition. The incident unfolded around noon at the university's Student Union building, prompting immediate police response and a campus-wide alert.
Authorities reported that a suspect was taken into custody shortly after the shooting began. The extent of the victims' injuries was initially unclear, but a spokesperson for Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare confirmed that six individuals were hospitalized, with one facing critical injuries and five others in serious condition.
In response to the unfolding situation, FSU's alert system advised students and staff to shelter in place. The alert warned of an active shooter, leading many to seek cover in nearby buildings. Eyewitness accounts describe a chaotic scene as students evacuated the area, some visibly shaken by the events.
Jake Nair, a senior at FSU, recounted the moment when police officers rushed into the library where he was studying, instructing students to remain calm and exit with their hands up. “It was a bit of a surreal moment,” Nair said, reflecting on the fear that gripped him and his classmates.
The lockdown at FSU was lifted shortly after 3 p.m. ET, with the university announcing that the threat had been neutralized. However, officials continued to advise caution, as several areas near the Student Union remained active crime scenes.
In a press conference held later that day, authorities confirmed that FBI agents were on the scene assisting with the investigation. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his condolences and support for the FSU community, stating, “Our prayers are with our FSU family and state law enforcement is actively responding.”
President Donald Trump, who was meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the White House, commented on the incident, saying, “It’s a horrible thing. It’s horrible that things like this take place.” His remarks highlighted the ongoing national concern over gun violence in schools and public spaces.
This incident is not the first of its kind at FSU; it harkens back to a tragic shooting in 2014, when a gunman opened fire in the Strozier Library, injuring three people. The previous shooter, Myron May, was killed by police shortly after the attack.
In light of the recent shooting, FSU has canceled all classes and athletic events through the weekend, with the last day of classes scheduled for the following Friday. Florida A&M University, located nearby, also canceled classes and student activities for the day.
As students and faculty grapple with the aftermath of the shooting, many are left questioning their safety on campus. Ryan Cedergren, a communications student, described the moment he and others hid in a bowling alley within the Student Union, saying, “In that moment, it was survival.”
Reports from the scene indicated that ambulances and law enforcement vehicles raced to the campus as the situation escalated. Videos shared on social media showed students fleeing the area, some visibly emotional and seeking comfort from one another.
As the investigation continues, the university community is left to process the trauma of such violence occurring on their campus. The FSU chapter of the College Democrats released a statement condemning the shooting, calling it a “completely preventable act of senseless violence” and urging for change to prevent future tragedies.
In the wake of this incident, many are reflecting on the broader issue of gun violence in America. Fred Guttenberg, whose daughter was killed in the 2018 Parkland shooting, expressed his sorrow, stating, “America is broken.” His comments resonate with those who have been affected by similar tragedies across the nation.
As more details emerge, the FSU community is coming together to support those affected and to seek answers about how to prevent such incidents in the future. The university remains vigilant, working closely with law enforcement to ensure the safety of its students and staff.
This developing story highlights the ongoing challenges faced by educational institutions in maintaining safety and security in an increasingly violent world. The FSU community, along with many others, continues to advocate for change and healing in the wake of this heartbreaking event.
