TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The community is mourning the loss of two individuals killed in a tragic shooting at Florida State University last week that also left six people injured, authorities confirmed. Among the deceased was Tiru Chabba, a 45-year-old vendor employee, who will be remembered during a private funeral service scheduled for Friday in Greenville, South Carolina, as announced by his family through their legal representatives.
Chabba, originally from Greenville and a regional vice president for Aramark Collegiate Hospitality, was visiting FSU’s campus in his professional capacity when the incident occurred. Throughout his career, he was known for his compassionate nature, particularly highlighted during his efforts to aid in recovery after Hurricane Helene hit by providing free meals to affected communities.
Remembered as a dedicated family man, Chabba leaves behind a wife and two children. His employer, Aramark, issued a statement expressing deep condolences and highlighting his passion for service and community support, which were evident in his disaster recovery contributions.
The other victim of the shooting, 57-year-old Robert Morales, was a dining coordinator at FSU, a role he held since 2015. Morales, known for his significant contributions to the university’s dining services and his earlier tenure as a coach at Lean County High School, had deep ties with the FSU community. His commitment extended beyond his professional duties, often engaging with students to enhance their campus dining experiences. He is survived by his wife and a daughter.
Morales’ life story includes his struggle with health challenges, having undergone a kidney transplant a few years ago and recently being listed for another. His loss is felt deeply by friends and colleagues who admired his enduring spirit and dedication to the FSU community.
In the wake of the shooting, FSU hosted a vigil to honor the victims and provide solace to the community. The suspected shooter, identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, a student at FSU and the child of a local law enforcement officer, was among those injured during the incident.
Following the event, local hospitals were tasked with treating the wounded. While five of the six injured were discharged, one remained hospitalized in good condition, according to hospital officials. The swift response by medical staff and first responders was crucial in managing the emergency situation effectively.
Local law enforcement, alongside FSU officials, continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, seeking insights into the motive and assessing the sequence of events that led to this tragedy.
This incident, marking a somber moment for FSU and the larger Tallahassee community, has reignited discussions on campus safety and the measures necessary to protect students and staff. The university has pledged ongoing support to those affected as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating event. As the community comes together in grief, there is a collective endeavor to heal and strengthen the bonds that unite them in the face of adversity.