A tragic shooting incident occurred on the campus of Florida State University (FSU) on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to six others. The alleged shooter has been identified as Phoenix Iikner, a 20-year-old FSU student and the son of a Leon County Sheriff’s deputy. Iikner is currently hospitalized after being shot by responding campus police officers.

The incident unfolded around 11:50 AM when gunfire erupted near the student union, a central location on the busy campus. In the wake of the shooting, an alert was disseminated via social media, urging students and staff to seek shelter. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with many students evacuating the area as authorities quickly responded. Lockdown protocols were implemented, leaving students confined to classrooms for several hours as law enforcement worked to secure the situation.

In a press briefing, law enforcement officials confirmed that two of the deceased were not FSU students. The injured individuals were transported to local hospitals, with their conditions yet to be detailed. The Leon County Sheriff’s Office stated that police confronted Iikner on the scene, neutralizing the threat, which resulted in his hospitalization rather than immediate arrest.

Sheriff’s officials revealed that Iikner had been actively involved in the community, having served on the Leon County Sheriff’s Office Youth Advisory Council. His mother, Deputy Iikner, has been with the sheriff’s office for over 18 years. The investigation is focusing on how he gained access to the firearms used in the incident, with reports indicating that one weapon—a handgun—belonged to his mother, although it was not her duty weapon.

As the investigation progresses, law enforcement has indicated that at least eight buildings on the FSU campus are closed and part of the crime scene. Classes have been canceled for the remainder of the week, and all Florida State sporting events have been suspended through Sunday. This incident has caused widespread panic and concern among students, faculty, and parents. One mother recounted the harrowing experience of trying to reach her daughter, who was barricaded in a classroom during the lockdown.

Tallahassee police are leading the ongoing investigation, which remains active as they gather information from witnesses and assess the scene. Officials have confirmed the recovery of both a shotgun and a handgun, with further details about the weapons and their use expected to emerge as the investigation unfolds.

The Leon County Sheriff’s Office has committed to thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting and ensuring that justice is served. The community is left grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event, reflecting on the increasing frequency of such incidents nationwide. As authorities continue to piece together the events of that fateful day, they are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation.