TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — A shooting at Florida State University has left two people dead and six others injured, stirring distress in the campus community. The incident occurred near the student union Thursday afternoon, sparking a substantial law enforcement response.
Authorities have apprehended Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old student of the university, preliminarily identified as the perpetrator of the shooting. Ikner is also the stepson of a Leon County deputy. According to Leon County Sheriff Walter McNeil, Ikner was using a firearm previously issued to his stepmother by the department.
During the occurrence, Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell reported that the suspect was neutralized and subsequently hospitalized following an altercation with law enforcement. It was revealed that Ikner had access to his stepmother’s firearm, which she had acquired officially after it was phased out for a newer model.
The university has pronounced an immediate suspension of all campus activities, including sports events and academic classes, which will continue to be canceled through Friday. In a bid to manage the situation and preserve safety, officials have advised the public and students to stay clear of the campus vicinity.
As the community reels from this tragic episode, response teams have been actively working to secure the area and ensure the wellbeing of all students and staff. Pending further updates, the FSU campus remains a critical focus of police investigation efforts to uncover the motives behind the tragic shooting.
In light of the event, students and faculty are urged to heed safety instructions and avoid the affected areas. The incident, which has significantly disrupted campus life, is being closely monitored by local authorities who continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the tragic outbreak of violence.
The shock of the incident has resonated deeply within the community, particularly as students were looking forward to the holidays. Campus services, including counseling and security briefings, have been intensified to support those impacted by the day’s events.
As healing and investigations continue, the FSU community stands together during this challenging time, reflecting on the necessary measures to enhance campus safety and prevent future tragedies. Local officials have committed to regular updates as more information becomes available and the situation develops.