TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A tragic shooting at Florida State University left two men dead and at least six others wounded. In the midst of chaos, students barricaded doors and fled across campus, abandoning their belongings to seek safety. Memorials of candles and flowers now scatter the campus, serving as a poignant reminder of the horrific events that unfolded.
The shooter, identified as Phoenix Ikner, is believed to be a student at Florida State and the son of a sheriff’s deputy. Using his mother’s former service weapon, Ikner opened fire just outside the student union. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown as authorities continue their investigation.
Despite the swift response of law enforcement officers, the campus was plunged into fear and panic as gunshots rang out. With five people sustaining gunshot wounds and one injured while attempting to escape, the repercussions of the shooting are deeply felt within the university community.
Following the incident, vigil candles flicker as students and professors return to retrieve their belongings and begin the process of healing. University President Richard McCullough expressed heartbreak over the tragedy, offering condolences to the victims and their families.
In 2014, Florida State University faced a similar tragedy when a shooting at the main library wounded three people. As the campus grapples with the aftermath of this latest incident, the community must come together to support one another during this difficult time.
President Donald Trump commented on the shooting, calling it a “horrible thing,” but stopped short of advocating for new gun legislation. The issue of gun violence continues to grip the nation, prompting debates and discussions on how to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the sun sets over Florida State University, the campus remains somber yet resilient. The scars of the shooting may linger, but the spirit of unity and healing shines through as the community stands strong in the face of adversity.