News Summary
A shooting incident at Florida State University resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to six others. The suspect, a junior, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder after using a service weapon in the attack. Law enforcement responded swiftly, and a campus-wide vigil was held in memory of the victims. The tragic event has sparked discussions around campus safety and gun violence in educational environments.
Tallahassee, Florida – A tragic shooting on the Florida State University (FSU) campus on April 17, 2025, has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to six others. The suspect, 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, is the stepson of a sheriff’s deputy and has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and seven counts of attempted first-degree murder.
The violent incident unfolded when Ikner utilized a former service weapon belonging to his stepmother, Deputy Jessica Ikner, who works with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. During the attack, campus dining services manager Robert Morales and father of two Tiru Chabba from Greenville, South Carolina, were fatally shot. The shooting injured six other individuals, who are expected to recover fully.
Law enforcement officials responded promptly to the active shooter situation, initiating a campus-wide lockdown and neutralizing the threat within four minutes of their arrival. During the confrontation, Ikner was shot and wounded by police, necessitating his treatment at a local hospital before being transferred to jail.
Details of the Incident
Students on campus reported hearing gunshots and alarms, leading to a state of panic and group lockdowns within various buildings. The timing of the attack and the ensuing chaos prompted significant concern among the student body.
Community Response
A vigil was subsequently organized to honor the victims, with FSU President Richard McCullough addressing the emotional toll inflicted on the FSU community. In a gesture of mourning, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in remembrance of those lost in the attack.
Investigation and Background
Ikner, who was enrolled as a junior in political science studies after transferring from Tallahassee State College, has remained silent regarding the motive behind the shooting, which officials have not yet disclosed. This incident has prompted a renewed conversation about campus safety and the issue of gun violence in educational settings.
In light of the tragedy, Deputy Jessica Ikner, who was reportedly 2 miles away at a local middle school during the shooting, has been reassigned from her position, although further details about her involvement remain unclear.
The university community is grappling with the grief and shock that such violence can occur in an educational environment. As investigations continue, FSU and local authorities will likely put strategies in place to address and enhance safety measures across the campus.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Shooting at Florida State University Raises Safety Concerns
Florida State University Enhances Media Rights Deal
Florida State University Welcomes New Players for Next Season
FSU Student Indicted for Mass Shooting Incident
Florida State University Student Indicted for Mass Shooting
Tallahassee Celebrates High School Graduations and Community Spirit
FSU Shooting Incident Leaves Two Dead, Suspect Charged
Tallahassee Hospitals Receive ‘B’ Grades in Leapfrog Safety Report
Concerns Rise Over Gun Violence Following Recent Shootings
FSU Proposes Takeover of Tallahassee Memorial Hospital
Additional Resources
- NBC News: FSU Shooting Court Appearance
- FSU Seminoles: NCAA Schedule Update
- Local 10: FSU Shooting Suspect Arrested
- Google Search: Florida State University shooting
- AP News: What to Know About FSU Shooting
- Wikipedia: School shooting
