Deputy’s Son opens fire at FSU, killing two and injuring six

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Friday, April 18th, 2025

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TALLAHASSEE, April 18, A deadly mass shooting at Florida State University (FSU) has left two people dead and six others injured, sending shockwaves through the campus just weeks before the semester’s end. The incident unfolded near the student union on April 17, prompting chaos as students fled or barricaded themselves in classrooms.
Authorities identified the shooter as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, the son of a Leon County sheriff’s deputy. Ikner, believed to be an FSU student, allegedly opened fire around lunchtime with a former service weapon registered to his mother. Both victims who died were not enrolled at the university, while the injured, some in good and fair condition, were taken to Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare. Two are expected to be discharged soon.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic. “Everyone started freaking out,” said student Sam Swartz, who recounted hiding with classmates in the basement using trashcans and plywood as barricades.
Campus police responded swiftly, shooting and apprehending Ikner. He is currently hospitalized, and officials believe he acted alone.
In the aftermath, FSU canceled classes and warned people to avoid the student union area. A vigil is scheduled for 5 p.m. on April 18 at Langford Green, outside the university’s football stadium.
The FBI has launched a digital tip line to gather more information about the shooting. “Each tip is being thoroughly reviewed and vetted for authenticity,” the bureau’s Jacksonville office stated.
Memorials with flowers and candles now dot the campus as the community mourns and seeks answers. The investigation remains ongoing.