Tallahassee Community Mourns Following FSU School Shooting

News Summary

The tragic shooting at Florida State University has left two individuals dead and several injured. The incident has sparked conversations about gun violence and safety on campus. FSU’s President is urging support for victims and their families during this difficult time.

Tallahassee Community in Mourning After FSU Shooting

On April 17, 2025, the vibrant campus of Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee was rocked by a tragic shooting that left two individuals dead and several others injured. The heart of the university, usually bustling with activity and camaraderie, found itself in chaos as the incident unfolded around noon near the Student Union.

The alleged shooter, identified as Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old FSU student and the son of a local sheriff’s deputy, reportedly used an old service weapon that belonged to his mother, who has served as a school resource deputy. Unfortunately, this tragic event has once again highlighted the complexities surrounding gun access and mental health awareness.

Details of the Incident

In this unfortunate incident, two lives were taken far too soon. Robert Morales, 57, a beloved dining coordinator at FSU, and Tiru Chabba, 45, a regional vice president visiting the campus for work, lost their lives. Their untimely deaths have sent shockwaves through the campus community, leaving friends, family, and colleagues grappling with their sudden absence. Additionally, six others were injured in the shooting, with five suffering gunshot wounds while one individual was hurt while fleeing the scene.

Despite the severity of the situation, all survivors are reported to be in stable or fair condition, with some undergoing necessary surgeries. Meanwhile, Ikner was shot by responding law enforcement officers and is now hospitalized, facing serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Once he recovers, he is expected to face multiple charges, including murder.

A Community Responds

The shooting prompted immediate action from local authorities, with the situation being neutralized by 3:30 p.m. the same day. This rapid response helped contain the panic that swept across the campus, which was placed on lockdown during the event.

FTSU’s President has expressed deep sorrow over the violence and emphasized the importance of supporting the victims and their families during this tragic time. In response to the event, classes were canceled through April 18, and a Support Center has been established to provide students with the counseling services they may need in the aftermath.

A vigil for the victims was scheduled for April 18 at Langford Green, where thousands from the community are expected to gather to honor and remember those who were lost. Makeshift memorials, complete with flowers and heartfelt notes, have begun to appear around campus, illustrating the deep sense of grief and solidarity felt by students and staff alike.

Looking Ahead

This incident has also sparked discussions surrounding gun violence and safety on campus, especially considering the previous 2014 shooting in FSU’s Strozier Library. Following the shooting, community members organized protests to demand accountability and action against gun violence and extreme ideologies.

Additionally, an event titled “United Against Hate,” which was designed to promote safety and awareness against hate crimes, has been canceled. This unfortunate twist of irony has not gone unnoticed, with many reflecting on the urgent need for safety and community-focused change.

Investigations Ongoing

As the investigation continues, authorities are currently looking into Ikner’s background, which reportedly includes a history of espousing extremist views. It’s crucial to note that investigators have not found any apparent connection between Ikner and the victims, leading many to wonder what might have prompted such a violent outburst.

The FBI has opened a tip line for anyone who may have further information regarding the incident, encouraging community participation to assist in piecing together what led to this tragic event.

Tallahassee is a community now bound by grief, seeking healing and understanding in the wake of this devastating senseless violence. As students begin to retrieve belongings left behind during the chaos starting April 18, the echoes of this tragedy will surely linger in the hearts of those at FSU and the broader community.

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HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

• Tallahassee.com
• Wikipedia: Florida State University Shooting
• CNN
• Google Search: Florida State University shooting
• NBC News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Florida State University
• New York Times
• Google News: FSU shooting
• AP News
• First Coast News