TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WE)— A campus shooting near the Florida State University (FSU) student union claimed the lives of two individuals and left six others injured on Thursday afternoon, prompting an immediate lockdown and a large-scale law enforcement response. Police have identified the suspect as Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old FSU student and the son of a deputy with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities say Ikner used his mother’s former service weapon in the attack.
FSU officials canceled all classes through Friday and suspended campus athletic events through the weekend as the university and the broader Tallahassee community mourn the victims of yet another mass shooting in the U.S.
What We Know So Far
The shooting erupted just before noon near the heart of Florida State University’s campus at the Student Union — a popular lunch-hour gathering spot for students. Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) Chief Lawrence E. Revell said officers arrived on the scene “almost immediately” after the gunfire began. Authorities issued a shelter-in-place order at 12:02 p.m. local time.
During a press briefing Thursday evening, Chief Revell reported that the attack claimed two lives and left six others injured, some critically. Police apprehended the suspect, 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, after shooting him when he refused to follow commands. He remains hospitalized.
“This is a tragic day for Florida State University,” said FSU President Richard McCullough, speaking at the briefing. “We’re working to support the victims, the families, and everyone affected.”
Suspect: Phoenix Ikner
Authorities say Phoenix Ikner is a currently enrolled student at FSU and the son of a school resource deputy with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. He reportedly invoked his Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and has not spoken to investigators.
Revell added that the primary weapon used was a handgun issued to Ikner’s mother during her service in law enforcement. The suspect also carried a shotgun, although it is unclear if it was fired.
“We are still investigating the full timeline and motive,” said Revell. “There’s a lot we still don’t know.”
Victims Not Yet Identified
While the shooter’s identity is confirmed, Chief Revell said the two deceased victims were not students. Their names have not been released pending notification of families.
Of the six wounded, several are FSU students. Two are reportedly in critical condition at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, where they are receiving treatment.
“I just came from visiting the victims in the hospital,” said President McCullough. “Right now, our top priority is safety and well-being for everyone on our campus.”
Terrifying Accounts from Witnesses
Students and faculty described chaos as shots rang out during the lunch hour. FSU junior McKenzie Heeter told NBC News that the assailant fired at her with what she believed was a rifle.
“He missed, then went back to his car to get a handgun and shot someone,” Heeter said. “That’s when I ran.”
A group of about 40 people sheltered in the Crenshaw Lanes Bowling Alley located in the Student Union’s basement, according to The Tallahassee Democrat.
FSU Campus on Lockdown
FSU issued a campus-wide emergency alert at 12:02 p.m., instructing students and staff to shelter in place. The lockdown remained active until shortly after 3 p.m., when officials confirmed the threat had been neutralized.
Students were advised to stay indoors, avoid the student union area, and walk only to dorms or the designated reunification center.
“We are doing everything we can to ensure safety and provide support,” said Chief Revell.
Investigation Led by Tallahassee Police
The investigation is being led by the Tallahassee Police Department, with support from the FBI Jacksonville Field Office, FDLE, and FSU Police Department.
Forensic experts are analyzing both weapons, conducting interviews with witnesses, and searching for digital evidence on Ikner’s devices.
A Community in Mourning
President Richard McCullough addressed the campus in an open letter Thursday evening:
“Today’s events are shocking and senseless. We mourn the loss of life and support those recovering. Please use the resources available.”
All classes have been canceled through Friday, and weekend FSU Athletics events have been suspended. University Counseling Center hours have been extended.
Mass Shootings on Campuses: A Grim Pattern
The FSU attack is part of a troubling pattern in the U.S. According to Everytown for Gun Safety, there have been over 200 campus shootings in the past decade.
“Colleges should be places of learning, not fear,” said Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action.
Advocates are demanding improved firearm storage laws, background checks, and restrictions on civilian access to weapons once used by law enforcement.
Political Response to the Shooting
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis offered condolences but did not mention gun reform.
“Our hearts are with the families,” DeSantis said in a brief statement.
Senators Rick Scott and Marco Rubio echoed similar sentiments. Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey, however, called for action.
“We must do more to keep guns out of the wrong hands,” Dailey tweeted.
Who Is Phoenix Ikner?
Phoenix Ikner is a second-year student at FSU with no known criminal history. Publicly available information shows no clear warning signs, though police are reviewing his social media and academic records.
His mother served as a school resource officer with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. How her former service weapon came into Ikner’s possession is under investigation.
FSU Offers Resources and Support
Students and families can access help through:
- University Counseling Center
- Student Resilience Project
- FSU Emergency Hotline: 1-888-378-6653
- Victim Assistance Fund via FSU Foundation
- Safe Walk Program
#FBI Jacksonville and the Tallahassee Resident Agency are on the scene at Florida State University and assisting our local law enforcement partners. pic.twitter.com/01ExtxwqtM
— FBI Jacksonville (@FBIJacksonville) April 17, 2025
National Gun Safety Debate Rekindled
Following the shooting, organizations like Brady United, Giffords, and Everytown renewed calls for reform.
“Thoughts and prayers are not enough. We need policy change,” said Kris Brown, President of Brady United.
