Campus Lockdown, Fatalities, and Ongoing Investigation

A campus-wide lockdown was initiated at Florida State University on Thursday following a mass shooting. The incident resulted in the cancellation of classes and events, and a significant law enforcement response. Authorities apprehended the attacker. Tragically, two individuals lost their lives, and six others sustained injuries.

Law enforcement officials indicated the suspected gunman was a 20-year-old FSU student. He was identified as the son of a Leon County deputy sheriff.

The university issued a series of alerts throughout the afternoon. The initial alert, sent at 12:02 p.m., reported an active shooter near the Student Union and instructed the community to shelter in place. Subsequent alerts confirmed police presence and reiterated the shelter-in-place order. At 2:44 p.m., the university announced law enforcement was clearing rooms and introduced the safe word "SEMINOLE." All classes and business operations were canceled through Friday, and athletic events were canceled through Sunday. By 3:18 p.m., authorities announced the threat had been neutralized, but the Student Union and surrounding buildings remained active crime scenes.

Following the incident, FSU officials canceled all classes and business operations on the main Tallahassee campus through Friday, April 18. Athletic events in Tallahassee were also canceled through Sunday. Students were permitted to return to their residence halls but were asked to remain indoors. They were also allowed to leave campus for the weekend.

The university provided support services at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, including counseling and healthcare. Family members seeking information or assistance were also directed to the Civic Center. The Student Union and several nearby buildings remained active crime scenes.