Panic gripped Florida State University’s Tallahassee campus on Thursday when a gunman opened fire near the student union just before noon, killing two people and injuring six others. The campus was immediately placed on lockdown as students barricaded themselves in classrooms and law enforcement responded within minutes.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old FSU student and the son of Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy Jessica Ikner. Ikner allegedly used his mother’s former service handgun, as well as a shotgun, during the attack. Both weapons were found at the scene. Law enforcement shot and apprehended Ikner after he failed to comply with commands; he is currently hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Officials confirmed that the two people killed were not FSU students, though their names have not yet been released. The six wounded victims are being treated at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Hospital, with most reported in fair condition.
Investigators are still searching for a motive behind the shooting. The university remains under heightened security, and classes have been canceled as the community comes to terms with the tragedy.
