2025-04-18T08:15:48.000Z

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MIAMI: A harrowing mass shooting incident at Florida State University (FSU) left two people dead and five others wounded, as local law enforcement confirmed on Thursday, April 17. The violent outburst is alleged to have been initiated by 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, the son of a local deputy sheriff, who reportedly used his mother's old service weapon in the tragic event.

The shooting unfolded in the heart of the campus during the busy lunchtime period, causing widespread panic and chaos among students and faculty. Witnesses recounted hearing a barrage of gunfire as Ikner allegedly opened fire on fellow students, prompting an immediate lockdown of the campus. Students were instructed to shelter in place as first responders rushed to the scene. Tragically, while two individuals lost their lives, five others sustained injuries from the gunfire, and an additional sixth person was injured while trying to flee the chaos.

Chief Lawrence Revell of the Tallahassee Police Department provided crucial updates during a press conference, stating that Ikner was taken to a local hospital where he is being treated for serious but non-life-threatening injuries after being shot by law enforcement. The swift action of the police likely prevented further fatalities, as Ikner was apprehended shortly after the rampage began.

In a poignant comment, Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil addressed the media, revealing that Ikner was not just a student at the university, but also the son of a respected member of his staff who had dedicated 18 years to service. Unfortunately, her son had access to one of her weapons, and that was one of the weapons that was found at the scene, he explained, underscoring the tragic implications of gun access within families. Furthermore, he noted that Ikner had participated in training programs with the Sheriff's Office, which raised concerns about responsible gun ownership and access.

Footage captured by bystanders, which was later broadcast by CNN, appeared to show Ikner casually walking through a lawn area on campus, indiscriminately shooting at individuals attempting to escape the gunfire. The atmosphere on campus was described as surreal by those who witnessed the event. A student named Wayne recounted the chaos, stating, Everyone just started running out of the student union. About a minute later, we heard about eight to 10 gunshots. He vividly remembered seeing a man who seemed to be shot in the midsection, illustrating the shock and horror that unfolded in mere moments.

Feeling overwhelmed by the intensity of the situation, Wayne described the scene as just surreal, adding, Everything was really quiet, then all chaotic. This incident underscores the urgent discussions surrounding gun control, mental health, and campus safety that continue to resonate across the United States.