Students recounted the terrifying moments when an active shooter began firing on the Florida State University campus in Tallahassee on a Thursday around noon. The incident resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to six others.
Videos documenting some of the immediate reactions were shared on social media platforms. The alleged shooter, identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, was an FSU student and the son of a Leon County deputy sheriff, according to Leon County Sheriff Walter McNeil. He was apprehended after being shot and wounded by law enforcement.
The shooting was reported near the student union around 12:01 p.m., according to FSU officials. One video depicted individuals fleeing from the gunfire across Tennessee Street. Another video, recorded by Stefano Mussi, showed students being escorted out of the Leach Student Recreation Center after the shooting, where they had been in lockdown for approximately two hours.
FSU student Blake Leonard described hearing around twelve shots, followed by another fifteen gunshots as he ran from the area. He initially thought it was construction, but quickly realized they were gunshots due to the sounds and impact of the bullets.
FSU freshman Ann Akabanasiak told a local news affiliate that she encountered a group of crying girls leaving the student union after parking her car. They informed her they had heard gunshots. Some of her friends were in lockdown on campus during the active shooter situation. They expressed their fear and desire to return home.
A father, who was touring the campus with his daughters, expressed relief at having survived the ordeal. He mentioned his daughter was trampled as people attempted to escape the gunfire.
The event triggered further trauma for several students who had survived the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, and are now attending FSU. Fourteen people were killed in the Parkland school shooting.
President Trump described the shooting at FSU as "terrible" and a "shame." When asked about potential changes to gun laws, he stated his obligation to protect the Second Amendment. He added that the gun itself does not shoot, but the people do.
7 Comments
Donatello
I am relieved that law enforcement acted quickly to apprehend the shooter. They deserve our gratitude for their bravery.
Raphael
My heart goes out to the victims and families affected by this senseless act. We must support each other in times of tragedy.
Michelangelo
Students showing resilience in the face of fear is truly inspiring. Together, we can heal.
Leonardo
Thank you to those who recorded and shared their experiences; it helps us understand and respond to these incidents.
Donatello
It’s okay to feel scared and anxious following such events; mental health support is essential right now.
Bermudez
The bravery of students who managed to escape is commendable. Let's focus on supporting them through this.
Coccinella
Sharing these personal stories helps shed light on how impactful these events are on the lives of students.