Tragedy Strikes Florida State University: Six Injured in Campus Shooting Near Student Union as Suspect Identified as 20-Year-Old Phoenix Ikner, Son of Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy
TALLAHASSEE, FL — A harrowing day unfolded at Florida State University (FSU) on Tuesday, April 16, 2025, as an active shooter incident near the Student Union prompted a campus-wide lockdown and left six individuals injured, including one in critical condition. Authorities have identified the suspect as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, a current FSU student and the son of a Leon County Sheriff’s deputy.
The shooting, which took place in the heart of the FSU campus in Tallahassee, sent students and faculty scrambling for cover after the university issued an emergency alert urging everyone to seek shelter, lock doors, and stay away from windows. “Police are on scene or on the way. Lock and stay away from all doors and windows and be prepared to take additional protective measures,” the alert read.
Law Enforcement Response and Arrest
Ikner was taken into custody without incident after a coordinated response by campus police, city police, and federal agencies. According to two law enforcement officials with direct knowledge of the situation, Ikner was found in possession of a handgun at the time of his arrest. A shotgun was later recovered from inside the Student Union, and a third firearm was discovered in his vehicle.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is working to trace the serial numbers on the recovered weapons to determine their origins. Meanwhile, the FBI’s Jacksonville office has deployed resources to support the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have confirmed that Phoenix Ikner acted alone in this attack, and there is currently no indication of a wider threat to the community.
Casualties and Medical Response
Emergency medical teams responded swiftly to the scene, where six people were found injured. Four victims were transported to nearby hospitals immediately. One of the victims remains in critical condition. Disturbing video footage circulated online showing one victim with a gunshot wound lying outside a campus building, further heightening public concern.
FSU officials stated that all scheduled classes and campus events were canceled for the day in the wake of the shooting. “Individuals not already on the main campus at this time should avoid coming to the Tallahassee main campus,” the university posted on its emergency advisory website.
Shockwaves in the Community
News of the shooting and the suspect’s identity has sent shockwaves through the Tallahassee community and beyond. Phoenix Ikner’s connection to local law enforcement—as the son of a Leon County Sheriff’s deputy—has raised questions about access to firearms and the mental health of students.
University officials and community leaders have extended their thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families, vowing to enhance security protocols and provide mental health support to those impacted.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Investigators are reviewing Ikner’s background, social media activity, and communications leading up to the incident to better understand what led to the tragedy.
Ongoing Investigation
Local and federal authorities remain at the scene as the investigation continues. Additional updates are expected as officials gather more details and process the evidence from the campus and the suspect’s belongings.
This incident marks yet another grim reminder of the threat of gun violence in educational institutions. The FSU community is now left grieving, recovering, and searching for answers in the wake of an unimaginable tragedy.