Active Shooter Terror Strikes Florida State University: Four Injured, One in Custody After Chaos Near Student Union

TALLAHASSEE, FL — April 17, 2025 — Panic and fear engulfed the campus of Florida State University on Thursday after an active shooter incident unfolded near the Student Union, leaving four people injured and thousands under lockdown. The terrifying ordeal began just before noon when FSU’s emergency alert system notified students, faculty, and staff of a possible gunman on campus, urging immediate shelter-in-place protocols.

A Sudden Eruption of Violence on Campus

The first alert sent through the FSU Alert System came just after 11:50 a.m., warning of an active shooter near the busy Student Union building, a central hub for student activity. The urgent message advised all individuals to stay away from windows and doors, lock themselves inside, and await further instructions. The text read:

“An active shooter has been reported in the area of the Student Union. Police are on the scene or en route. Continue to seek shelter and await further instructions. Lock and stay away from all doors and windows and be prepared to take additional protective measures.”

Witnesses described scenes of panic as students fled outdoor areas and scrambled for safety inside classrooms, libraries, and dormitories. Others barricaded themselves in buildings, many of them hiding silently in darkened rooms for over an hour as sirens wailed in the distance.

Police Response and Suspect Taken Into Custody

The Florida State University Police Department (FSUPD) responded swiftly, arriving on the scene within minutes. They were joined by officers from the Tallahassee Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies. Officers armed with rifles and tactical gear were seen sweeping buildings and clearing hallways as they moved methodically to secure the campus.

Authorities confirmed that one suspect has been taken into custody. Although the suspect’s identity has not yet been publicly released, police stated that the threat to campus was neutralized by early afternoon.

Casualties and Medical Response

Four individuals sustained injuries during the shooting, according to a statement from university officials. All four victims were transported to local hospitals. At least one was reported to be in critical condition, while the others were said to have non-life-threatening injuries. The names and ages of the victims have not yet been released.

Paramedics and emergency crews remained on standby near the Student Union and other high-traffic zones, providing immediate medical support where needed.

Campus on Lockdown and Classes Cancelled

In the aftermath of the incident, Florida State University canceled all classes and campus events for the remainder of the day, including scheduled athletic competitions and student organization meetings. The campus remained under lockdown for several hours as police continued to sweep buildings and investigate the scene.

Many students expressed disbelief and fear on social media, sharing photos and video clips from inside locked classrooms and residence halls.

“We thought it was a drill at first… then the sirens and messages came,” said senior Alex Harmon, who was inside the Strozier Library during the alert. “It was like a nightmare. We had to stay quiet, turn off our lights, and wait. I was texting my mom telling her I loved her, just in case.”

University administrators have since confirmed that mental health services and trauma counseling will be made available immediately to any student, faculty, or staff member affected by the tragedy. The school’s counseling center has extended hours, and additional crisis support teams are being deployed across campus.

Investigation Underway

Authorities are still working to determine the motive behind the shooting. Early reports suggest that the suspect may have had a personal connection to at least one of the victims, though this remains unconfirmed.

A press briefing is expected to be held by the Tallahassee Police Department and FSUPD once the initial investigation concludes. Law enforcement is urging anyone who witnessed the event or has information to come forward.

“We are grateful for the rapid response by our officers and thankful that this situation was contained quickly,” said a spokesperson for FSUPD. “But we are devastated that it happened at all. Our hearts are with the victims and their families tonight.”

Community in Mourning

The shocking incident has left the FSU community shaken, reigniting national conversations about safety and gun violence on college campuses. Vigils and support gatherings are already being planned by students, with calls for change echoing across social platforms and campus forums.

“It’s heartbreaking that this is the reality students face now,” said sophomore Lena Morris. “We come here to learn and grow, not to fear for our lives in the middle of the day.”

As the investigation continues, Florida State University officials have urged everyone to remain alert, support one another, and stay informed through official FSU channels.

This story is developing. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.