News Summary
A shooting at Cascades Park in Tallahassee early Monday left two individuals injured, igniting renewed discussions about gun violence in Florida. This incident follows a tragic shooting at Florida State University, where a student opened fire, prompting debates around gun control. As advocates push for stricter measures, political divisions intensify, with legislators focused on various issues without significant progress on gun governance. Community discussions continue as Florida navigates its response to rising gun violence and public safety measures.
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA — A shooting at Cascades Park early Monday morning left two individuals injured, raising fresh concerns about gun violence in Florida. The shooting, which occurred just before 4:15 a.m. in the 1000 block of South Gadsden Street, is under investigation, and authorities have yet to make any arrests. Fortunately, both victims are expected to survive their injuries.
This incident comes on the heels of a tragic shooting at Florida State University (FSU) on April 17, where a 20-year-old man opened fire on campus, killing two and injuring six others. The shooter, identified as Phoenix Ikner, is a student at FSU and the son of a Leon County deputy sheriff. He is reported to have used his mother’s former service weapon during the campus attack, prompting increased scrutiny of gun access among young individuals.
The recent violence has created a backdrop for ongoing legislative debates in Florida, particularly surrounding gun control. Following the FSU incident, there were renewed discussions among lawmakers about enhancing school safety measures. The Florida Legislature is currently considering several bills, including one that would enable elementary and middle school students to use cell phones during school hours, and another that would introduce new penalties for animal cruelty related to natural disasters.
Moreover, while Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law allowing school districts some flexibility around start times for middle and high schools, no significant gun control legislation has advanced. Advocates voice concerns that proposed measures to lower the legal age for purchasing firearms from 21 to 18 could exacerbate the challenges relating to youth gun violence.
As Florida grapples with rising gun violence—with five mass shootings recorded in just the first four months of 2025—students from FSU and Tallahassee State College have begun to advocate more forcefully for stricter gun control measures. They have expressed frustrations regarding proposed tax cuts for firearms, viewing such actions as contradictory to the need for increased public safety. Many have called for enhanced background checks, safe storage requirements, and more localized regulation of firearms, highlighting the legislative inertia on these issues.
The ongoing conversations about gun violence and safety have sparked stark divisions in Florida’s political climate. While Democrats have vocally criticized the majority for failing to address these pressing concerns, Republican lawmakers seem more focused on advancing measures that could ease restrictions on gun ownership. This polarization has frustrated many who believe the legislative session should focus more on public safety than lessening regulations.
The tragic caseload has undoubtedly rattled the FSU community and sparked a broader conversation on gun control statewide. Notably, public figures such as Governor DeSantis and former Governor Rick Scott have emphasized the importance of justice and the need for safety in the aftermath of the shootings, offering condolences to victims and families affected by this violence.
Later today, the Northeast Business Association (NEBA) will host its May luncheon at noon, featuring Sal Nuzzo, executive director of Consumers Defense, who will discuss the status of new legislation and the state budget. This event serves as a reminder of the critical intersection between policy decisions and public safety in Florida.
As the state continues to navigate these tumultuous discussions surrounding gun violence, the upcoming legislative sessions will be pivotal in determining the direction Florida will take regarding firearms governance and public safety.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
FSU Student Faces Trauma After Campus Shooting
Shooting Incident at Florida State University
Florida Schools Enforce Strict Cell Phone Ban
Active Shooter Incident at Florida State University
Tragic Shooting Claims Lives of Mother and Three Children
FSU Student Indicted for Mass Shooting at Student Union
Tragic Shooting at Florida State University Leaves Two Dead
Tragic Shooting at Florida State University Raises Safety Concerns
FSU Student Indicted for Mass Shooting Incident
Florida State University Student Indicted for Mass Shooting
Additional Resources
- Politico: Tallahassee Reels as Florida State Shooting Impacts Lawmakers’ Backyard
- Google Search: Florida State University shooting
- CBS News: Florida Legislature Considers Repealing Gun Age Law
- Wikipedia: Gun violence in the United States
- Tallahassee.com: FSU Shooting Sparks Outcry for Gun Reform
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gun Control
