Two Dead, Six Injured in Shooting at Florida State University; Shooter Identified as Student

A shooting at Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee on Thursday left two people dead and six others injured, according to authorities, as per Fox News.

The incident began around 11:50 a.m. During a press conference that afternoon, authorities identified the suspected shooter as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, a student at the university.

Ikner was transported to a local hospital after being “neutralized” by law enforcement. Police also confirmed that Ikner’s mother, Jessica Ikner, is a sheriff’s deputy with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office and that her service weapon was used in the shooting.

Authorities have stated that the two individuals killed were not FSU students. The area is currently being treated as an active crime scene, and investigators believe Ikner acted alone.

Images from the scene show students kneeling near the area where the shooting occurred, which remains cordoned off with yellow tape as authorities conduct their investigation.

A vigil has been established on campus, marked by dozens of flower bouquets, candles, and heart-shaped balloons. FSU student William Schatz, speaking to Fox News Digital, recounted being in the library preparing for a presentation when the incident unfolded.

Federal law enforcement agencies quickly responded to the scene. The FBI dispatched agents from its Tallahassee field office, located near the FSU campus, while the ATF’s Tampa office confirmed their presence and assistance to local law enforcement. The FBI’s Jacksonville office is actively seeking information related to the shooting and has requested tips from the public.

FBI Director Kash Patel stated he was briefed on the situation, and FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino confirmed the bureau’s presence at FSU.

FSU’s Tallahassee campus spans 485.7 acres and includes 403 buildings. The university boasts a student body of over 44,300 and employs more than 16,000 individuals, according to its official website. The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing.