Categories: College University Athletics

FSU Class of 2025 to Graduate Amid Tragedy

Graduation ceremony at Florida State University, filled with students honoring victims.

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News Summary

The Florida State University (FSU) class of 2025 will graduate as the largest in history, but the ceremonies will be shadowed by a recent tragic mass shooting. With a moment of silence planned for the victims, the community comes together in remembrance while emphasizing safety and support. Enhanced security measures will be in place at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center as students, faculty, and families navigate this somber occasion following the loss of two community members during the incident.

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida State University (FSU) class of 2025 is poised to graduate as the largest class in the university’s history, with ceremonies scheduled to take place soon. These events will hold significant emotional weight following a tragic mass shooting that occurred on April 17, leading to a somber atmosphere as the community mourns the loss of two individuals.

During the graduation ceremonies, a moment of silence will be observed to honor the victims of the shooting. The incident resulted in the deaths of Robert Morales, a university dining coordinator, and Tiru Chabba, a 45-year-old food service executive who was in Tallahassee for work. Six others were injured in the shooting, which took place on the university campus, prompting security measures to be heightened during the graduation events.

The shooter, identified as Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old, is currently recovering in the hospital after being shot by law enforcement during the incident. Investigations by local authorities continue, with officials stressing their commitment to transparency regarding the unfolding events. Law enforcement has confirmed that Ikner used his stepmother’s service weapon during the attack.

FSU President Richard McCullough has communicated the graduation schedule through an email to students, emphasizing the importance of coming together during this difficult time. A strong security presence will be established across the campus to ensure the safety of attendees during the ceremonies, which will occur indoors at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.

Senior student Kaitlyn Walsh reflected on the impact of the shooting, noting that it has altered the outlook of the graduating class regarding their ceremony. The sense of community at FSU has been evident as students and faculty members have participated in vigils and memorials to support one another and honor those affected by the tragedy.

In light of the shooting, students at FSU have been advised to avoid the area where the incident took place and are encouraged to utilize the support services being offered by the university. These measures aim to help students cope with the emotional aftermath of the violence.

As the investigation continues, the family of Tiru Chabba has hired legal representation in pursuit of clarity concerning the circumstances surrounding his death and the motivations of the shooter. Community leaders, including state officials and the university’s president, have extended their condolences to the victims’ families and stressed the need for accountability, as well as actions to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

The FSU community remains united in its resolve to heal and support one another as the graduation ceremony approaches. The class of 2025 not only represents a significant milestone for the university but also stands as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity.