Chaos erupted at Florida State University's Tallahassee campus as students fled for their lives during a tragic shooting incident that shook the academic community.
According to Daily Mail, a gunman identified as Phoenix Ikner opened fire from an orange Hummer near the student union around midday on Thursday, killing two people and injuring six others in a devastating attack.
The shooter, who was later revealed to be the son of a local sheriff's deputy, used his mother's handgun to carry out the assault. Witnesses described him as wearing an orange t-shirt and khaki shorts, appearing like "a normal college dude" before the incident unfolded.
McKenzie Heeter, an eyewitness at the scene, reported hearing approximately 15 rounds being fired during the incident. Students scrambled for safety, leaving behind their belongings as they sought shelter from the gunfire.
Social media was flooded with disturbing footage of the incident, including videos of students hiding under desks in classrooms. In one particularly chilling moment, terrified students remained silent as someone repeatedly banged on their classroom door demanding entry.
The Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare facility mobilized its resources to treat the six injured victims. One victim remains in critical condition while the others are being treated for serious injuries.
The Tallahassee Fire Department took control of the campus while the Leon County Sheriff's Office deployed a helicopter to survey the area. The FBI joined the investigation as law enforcement worked to secure the premises.
Police sources confirmed to multiple news outlets that there was only one shooter involved, contrary to earlier reports suggesting multiple gunmen. The suspect was shot by law enforcement during the incident and was among those transported to the hospital.
Authorities discovered multiple firearms, including a shotgun and pistol, during their investigation. A grey sedan containing weapons was also found, though its connection to the orange Hummer witnesses reported remains unclear.
FSU senior Will Schatz described the chaotic scene at Strozier Library where he witnessed students fleeing in panic. His account highlighted the confusion and fear that gripped the campus community during the incident.
This marks the second mass shooting at FSU's Tallahassee campus, following a 2014 incident where an alumnus shot three people at the same library. The previous shooter was killed by officers during that incident.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed his support for the FSU community, stating his prayers were with the "FSU family." President Trump also confirmed he had been fully briefed on the situation.
The shooting at Florida State University's Tallahassee campus claimed two lives and left six others injured when Phoenix Ikner, son of a local sheriff's deputy, opened fire near the student union. The incident triggered a massive law enforcement response, including local police, FBI involvement, and campus-wide lockdown procedures. As the university community begins to process this tragedy, authorities continue their investigation while the injured victims receive treatment at local medical facilities.
