TALLAHASSEE, Florida — In a shocking incident at Florida State University (FSU), 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner has been identified as the shooter who killed two and injured six near the student union. The attack occurred around noon, with authorities revealing that Ikner used a firearm previously owned by his police officer mother, Jessica Ikner. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as students fled from the sounds of gunfire.
Tragic Shooting at Florida State University: Two Killed, Six Injured

Tragic Shooting at Florida State University: Two Killed, Six Injured
A police officer’s son allegedly opens fire on campus, triggering a nationwide conversation on gun control.
As police responded to active shooter reports, it was confirmed that the deceased victims were not students at FSU. The chaotic situation prompted campus officials to issue alerts, urging students to seek shelter. Sheriff Walt McNeil noted that Ikner had been a promising youth advisory council member within the sheriff's office and had access to weapons, leading to questions about gun control.
Eyewitness accounts revealed the terrifying nature of the incident, with one student initially mistaking gunfire for construction noise before realizing the gravity of the situation. President Joe Biden and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed their condolences, sparking discussions on the state of gun regulations in the U.S. This incident marks another instance of gun violence affecting FSU, with recent history reminding the community of past tragedies, including a previous shooting in 2015.
Survivors of earlier mass shootings also spoke out about their trauma resurfacing with this latest event, shedding light on a growing concern regarding gun violence in American educational institutions. The motive behind Ikner's actions remains unclear, as the investigation continues.
This tragic event has ignited calls for justice and renewed discussions on legislation aimed at preventing future shootings on campuses nationwide.
Eyewitness accounts revealed the terrifying nature of the incident, with one student initially mistaking gunfire for construction noise before realizing the gravity of the situation. President Joe Biden and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed their condolences, sparking discussions on the state of gun regulations in the U.S. This incident marks another instance of gun violence affecting FSU, with recent history reminding the community of past tragedies, including a previous shooting in 2015.
Survivors of earlier mass shootings also spoke out about their trauma resurfacing with this latest event, shedding light on a growing concern regarding gun violence in American educational institutions. The motive behind Ikner's actions remains unclear, as the investigation continues.
This tragic event has ignited calls for justice and renewed discussions on legislation aimed at preventing future shootings on campuses nationwide.