FSU campus experiences active shooter situation prompting police response and campus lockdown. Further details to be announced.

A tragic shooting incident at Florida State University in Tallahassee resulted in the deaths of two individuals, with six others wounded. The gunman, identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, reportedly gained access to his mother’s service weapon before opening fire on the campus, as confirmed by law enforcement officials. Ikner, believed to be a student at FSU, was apprehended by police after being shot and is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital. It has been reported that the two fatalities were not affiliated with the university.

The unfolding crisis prompted a significant response from law enforcement, which swarmed the campus shortly after noon, instructing students to seek shelter. Many took refuge in classrooms and the library as police secured the premises. By 3:17 PM, Tallahassee police announced that they had rendered the campus safe, but the area around the student union remains classified as a crime scene while investigations continue.

Following the event, a reunification center was established at The Donald L. Tucker Civic Center for students and families to connect. In light of the circumstances, Florida State University canceled all classes for the remainder of the week, significantly impacting students as finals approach.

The FBI has requested that anyone present during the incident share any photos, videos, or other relevant information via a dedicated website. Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell stated that officers confronted Ikner before he was shot; he did not comply with their commands and allegedly did not fire at police. This incident marks another shooting incident affecting a university campus, raising concerns about safety in educational spaces.

Sheriff Walter McNeil revealed that Ikner is associated with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office through a youth advisory council and has undergone various training programs, which raises additional questions regarding access to firearms. Investigators are focused on the circumstances surrounding how he obtained the weapon.

Police confirmed that the shooter fired at individuals near the student union approximately 20 minutes before the lockdown was initiated. As emergency services were engaged in managing the scene, Tallahassee Memorial Hospital reported treating six patients, with one listed in critical condition.

In the wake of this incident, officials at nearby Florida A&M University also canceled classes for the day, urging faculty and staff to prioritize safety. The tragic occurrence has elicited significant emotional reactions from students, many of whom reflected on their experiences during the lockdown. Students expressed a range of feelings from fear to disbelief, underscoring the persistent trauma associated with such incidents.

As investigations unfold and the university community processes this tragic event, conversations about campus safety and gun control are expected to intensify in the coming weeks. Media News Source will continue to follow developments in this ongoing story.