COLLEGE TOWN, FL — On Thursday, April 17, a shooter opened fire on the campus of Florida State University. Two people were killed and five others were injured by gunfire. The suspected shooter, also injured in the attack, was taken into custody and transported to Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare for treatment.
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11:10 p.m.: Florida State University Head Football Coach Mike Norvell released a statement on his Instagram account:
"As this day comes to an end, I find myself reflecting over the last 36 hours. I do not have the right words which fully grasp the depth of emotions which I feel. The sadness which has covered our wonderful University by the events that took place Thursday is overwhelming. The hurt and anger is infuriating, while not knowing why something like this would ever occur.
I'm so grateful for the law enforcement and first responders for all they did as they cared for those in need. I am filled with empathy for all the victims, families, and individuals affected by this tragic act. I love this community, it is filled with an incredible culture and a deep care for its residents. Thank you for coming together and loving each other in this time of grieving. I am blessed with the responsibility to help guide the leaders of tomorrow to be a positive difference maker in this World. It simply starts with one positive step. In a time of darkness we can be a light for others if we choose to let that light shine. I Love You Tallahassee, FSU and all the NoleFamily! Let's make a positive impact together as we honor those impacted in this senseless act. Matthew 5:14-16"
3:50 p.m.: ABC News reports, The family of Tiru Chabba, who identifies him as one of the victims of the deadly shooting on Florida State Campus has hired attorneys. You can read the full statement below:
The family of Tiru Chabba, the 45-year-old father of two who was killed in Thursday’s mass shooting at Florida State University (FSU), has hired renowned national civil rights attorney Bakari Sellers [stromlaw.com] of The Strom Law Firm [stromlaw.com] and Jim Bannister [bannisterandwyatt.com] to ensure that all those who bear responsibility for this senseless act of violence are held to account.
Chabba, a resident of Greenville, SC, was on the FSU campus Thursday as an employee of a campus vendor when, according to authorities, 20-year-old FSU student Phoenix Ikner opened fire shortly before noon killing him and one other and wounding six.
Chabba is survived by his wife and two children. The family’s attorneys ask that members of the media respect the family’s privacy and direct any questions to The Strom Law Firm [stromlaw.com] or Wukela Communications at mcw@wukelacom.com.
“Tiru Chabba’s family is going through the unimaginable now,” says Sellers. “Instead of hiding Easter eggs and visiting with friends and family, they’re living a nightmare where this loving father and devoted husband was stolen from them in an act of senseless and preventable violence.”
“We ask you to keep his family in your thoughts and prayers as we fight to ensure they see justice that honors the memories of Mr. Chabba and all the victims of Thursday’s shooting.”
3:32 p.m.: The Leon County Sheriff's Office provided an update regarding Deputy Ikner. They say she's the step-mother of the suspected shooter, Phoenix Ikner. She was previously a school resource officer and now has been assigned to property crimes unit. She's now on personal leave.
2:41 p.m.:
We are learning more about one of the shooting victims following an active shooter incident on FSU's campus.
Leon High School Athletics Department posted on its website, confirming the passing of Robert Morales, who was a former Assistant Football Coach.
It is with profound sadness that Leon High School Athletics Department acknowledges the passing of former Assistant Football Coach Robert Morales, who tragically lost his life during the Florida State University shooting on April 17.
Coach Morales was a beloved member of our athletic community and served as an assistant coach for Leon Football with dedication, integrity and true passion for mentoring youth athletes. His commitment to the game and to shaping the lives of his players extended far beyond the field. He was a trusted coach, a respected colleague, and a cherished friend to many.
The loss of Coach Morales is deeply felt by all of us at Leon High School, especially during this difficult and tragic time. Our hearts are heavy, and we will join the boarder the broader Tallahassee community in mourning his passing. His legacy of leadership, compassion, and service will forever remain a part of the Leon Lions tradition. We extend our deepest condolences to the Morales family, his friends, and all who were touched by his life and work.
A man on X, formerly known as Twitter, who is identifying himself as the brother of Morales, also posted about the death of Morales.
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤Today we lost my younger Brother, He was one of the victims killed at FSU. He loved his job at FSU and his beautiful Wife and Daughter. I’m glad you were in my Life. ❤️
— Ricardo Morales Jr. (@Rick714Canes) April 18, 2025
Him with our Dad on the left and with our other Brother Sister, Gma and cousin. pic.twitter.com/cD24kEZBSU
2:18 p.m. Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell gives more insight into the active shooter incident on FSU's campus on Thursday.
1:20: p.m.: Tallahassee Police Department releases timeline of events following yesterday's FSU active shooter incident.
On April 17, just before noon, members of the Florida State University Police Department, along with the Tallahassee Police Department, responded to reports of an active shooting incident unfolding on FSU’s campus. A multi-agency response at the local, state and federal level immediately ensued.
The entire incident was over in less than five minutes. Despite the quick response, the suspect was able to injure eight people and impact the lives of hundreds of students, faculty, staff, first responders and residents of this community through his actions.
“What we saw on April 17 was an extraordinary example of teamwork and professionalism in the face of a horrific event,” said Chief Lawrence Revell of the Tallahassee Police Department. “From the moment the call came in, agencies across our region came together seamlessly, sharing information and deploying resources with public safety the top priority. This kind of response doesn’t happen by accident; it’s the result of training, partnerships and a shared commitment to protecting our community.”
Today, the Tallahassee Police Department is releasing a timeline of events:
Timeline of EventsTPD is continuing to interview witnesses and victims following the shootings as this remains an open and active investigation. The FBI has established a digital tips media line where you can upload photos and videos, which is accessible at www.fbi.gov/fsushooting [fbi.gov].
- At approximately 11 a.m. – The suspect, Phoenix Ikner, arrives at an FSU parking garage. He stays in the area for an hour moving in and out of the vehicle.
- At 11:51 a.m. – Ikner leaves the parking garage.
- Between 11:56 and 11:57 a.m. – The first shot is fired. Ikner walks in and out of buildings and green spaces, firing a handgun.
- By 11:58 a.m. – Multiple 911 calls report a male actively shooting on campus, simultaneous to a police response by nearby officers.
- 12 p.m. – The suspect is shot by responding officers and taken into custody.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact TPD at 850-891-4200. To remain anonymous, call Crime Solvers at 850-574-TIPS.
1:15 p.m.: TMH says all six victims are expected to make a full recovery.
12:40 p.m.: Governor Ron DeSantis has ordered flags been flown at half-staff at all local and state buildings, installations, and grounds throughout the State of Florida until sunset on Monday, April 21.
10:52 a.m.: TMH is set to hold a press conference at 1 p.m. regarding the medical staff who provided frontline emergency and trauma care to patients from Thursday’s shooting at Florida State University.
9:20 a.m.: Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare releases a morning update.
Good morning, sharing an update from Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
We are grateful for the outpouring of support for our emergency, trauma, and nursing teams. We are honored to be the hospital providing care to these patients.
Patient update as of 9 am April 18, 2025: Two patients are expected to be discharged today. Three have improved and are in good condition. One remains in fair condition.
8:28 a.m.: TPD gives an update on victims status. They say all surviving victims are in stable condition. The suspect is also in stable condition. No press conference is expected today and all future updates will be pushed out via social media.
Friday, April 18th
11:58 p.m.: Forrest Saunders provides details on Thursday's shooting at FSU.
10:25 p.m.: Sen. Rick Scott says the victims he visited with at TMH were "upbeat" and wanting to get back to class.
10:07 p.m.: FSU provides update on student services, counseling opportunities
SUPPORT CENTER HOURS, VIGIL SET FOR APRIL 18
— Florida State University (@FloridaState) April 18, 2025
SUPPORT CENTER OPEN FRIDAY, APRIL 18
The university will open a Support Center at the Askew Student Life Center from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, April 18. Counseling and Victim’s Advocate services will be available, and staff will be on… pic.twitter.com/p3sQ00F3VM
9:39 p.m.: Prayer Visual to be held tomorrow, April 18th at Noon at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church
9:11 p.m.: The Tallahassee Police Department releases statement following Thursday's events, including that the victims were two men.
9:04 p.m.: Senator Rick Scott will visit TMH tonight at 9:30 to speak to victims then will address the press.
8:47 p.m.: Leon County Commissioner Brian Welch releases statement
Every person connected to @FloridaState, @LeonCounty, and the @CityofTLH is profoundly saddened by the tragic events that occurred at FSU today.
— Brian Welch (@CommishWelch) April 17, 2025
Please pray for the 2 individuals who lost their lives and the 6 students that were injured.
Our community mourns together today.
8:28 p.m.: Per FSU: All victims’ families have been contacted. Many individuals have been separated from their belongings, including their personal cell phones, as a result of today’s events. We continue to urge all students and staff to contact their family members as soon as possible to let them know they are safe and well.
Individuals who left belongings in buildings during the incident should fill out the survey at this link fla.st/55ONDDIT.
Individuals who fill out the survey will be notified of the process to collect their belongings on Friday, April 18.
All classes on the main Florida State University campus in Tallahassee are cancelled Thursday, April 17 and Friday, April 18 due to a shooting at the Student Union. Employees should check with their supervisors to determine if they are essenti https://t.co/35xLgPkNNK
— FSU Alert (@FSUAlert) April 17, 2025
6:29 p.m.: Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier releases statement
It is with a heavy heart that we get confirmation of the two killed and multiple injured at the hands of a violent gunman at FSU.
— Attorney General James Uthmeier (@AGJamesUthmeier) April 17, 2025
Thank you to the brave men and women who ran toward danger to save and protect others.
My office activated our victim's advocate services to provide…
6:12 p.m.: TSC cancels classes Friday, April 18th out of respect for the events that happened at FSU but the campus will remain open for support services.
5:49 p.m.: FSU's President Richard McCullough releases the following statement after today's events:
Dear FSU community,
Today, we experienced a tragic and senseless act of violence at the heart of our campus.
At lunchtime, an active shooter opened fire at the Student Union. Two members of our community were killed. Six others were injured.
We are heartbroken. We are grieving with the families, friends, and loved ones of those who were lost. We are holding close those who are injured, and we are standing by everyone who is hurting.
I’ve been in constant contact with our law enforcement and emergency teams since the incident began. The FSU Police Department, along with the Tallahassee Police Department, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Florida Highway Patrol, responded immediately and decisively. FSU Police contained the threat and prevented even greater tragedy. I am grateful for their courage and professionalism.
Right now, our focus is on taking care of people. That means the victims and their families. It means students, faculty, and staff who were nearby and are now trying to make sense of what they experienced. And it means every person in our campus community who is feeling shaken or overwhelmed.
We are working closely with our leadership, law enforcement, and mental health professionals to ensure that everyone has the support they need. If you’re struggling, please reach out to our Counseling & Psychological Services team at (850) 644-2003. You are not alone.
There will be more updates in the days ahead, and more time to reflect and heal. But now, we mourn together. We lean on one another. And we remember who we are.
We are Florida State. We are family. And we stand together.
5:41 p.m.: Governor Ron DeSantis releases a video statement following Thursday's deadly shooting at FSU.
We stand with Florida State University. Today, we are all Seminoles. pic.twitter.com/dUMW3eL48r
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) April 17, 2025
5:15 p.m.: City Church doing a prayer gathering tonight at 6:00 at their main campus off North Monroe Street.
5:01 p.m.: FAMU to keep campus closed Friday, April 18th
5:00 p.m.: Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare releases latest update:
We are deeply saddened by the tragic events that occurred today at FSU. Our hearts are with the students, families, and everyone impacted by this heartbreaking situation.
TMH has received six patients related to this incident, all of which are currently in fair condition. Our dedicated trauma teams are providing the highest level of care to all patients, and we remain fully mobilized to meet their needs.
We continue to work closely with emergency responders and public safety officials. Out of respect for patient privacy and to ensure the accuracy of information, we will provide updates as appropriate.
We ask for the community’s support and compassion during this difficult time.
4:57 p.m.: TPD taking the lead on officer-involved shooting and homicide investigations.
Watch: Forrest Saunders describes what's next for law enforcement.
4:52 p.m.: LCSO: Stepmother of suspected shooter is not currently on leave. She's a current deputy and school resource officer. The sheriff's office looking into shooters access to weapon.
4:51 p.m.: LCSO: Shooter identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner.
4:46 p.m.: TPD: Suspect challenged officers and was shot during the altercation.
4:39 p.m.: LCSO: Shooter is the son of a deputy. The deputy's weapon was used in the shooting. LCSO investigating how the shooter gained access.
4:32 p.m.: Police say first shots rang out at 11:50 a.m. Two people have been killed and were not students. Five other people were hurt. The shooter is believed to be a student.
4:25 p.m.: ABC News reports there was one shooter and that they were shot and have non-life threatening injuries and is in custody.
4:19 p.m.: The Florida State Conference and Tallahassee Branch NAACP releases statement
4:08 p.m.: ABC News is reporting Florida State University’s Division of Student Affairs will hold a vigil on Friday at 5:00 p.m. on campus at Langford Green.
4:00 p.m.: Per CNN: Suspect is among the hospitalized in Tallahassee after FSU shooting, sources says
3:58 p.m.: The Apalachee Center’s Mobile Response Team is available for anyone in the community who needs mental health support or wants to talk to anyone following Thursday's events. The number is 800-342-0774.
3:55 p.m.: State University System of Florida: The Tucker Center is serving as the student and family assistance center.
The Tucker Center is serving as the student and family assistance center for those impacted by the tragedy that took place at @FloridaState today. Counseling and other support services are available at the Tucker Center. For additional information, visit https://t.co/bzWHWakHyT.
— State University System of Florida (@SUS_Florida) April 17, 2025
3:46 p.m.: FSU has released the names of the buildings that are still closed as they are still an active crime scene.
The following buildings are currently CLOSED as they are still an active crime scene: Student Union, Bellamy, HCB Classroom Building, Rovetta A&B, Moore Auditorium, Shaw, Pepper, Hecht House and Carraway. Individuals should not return to these buildings to https://t.co/Oj4yJzqVsN
— FSU Alert (@FSUAlert) April 17, 2025
3:39 p.m.: Speaker Mike Johnson releases statement following shooting.
Horrific news out of Tallahassee.
— Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) April 17, 2025
Please join us in praying for the students, faculty, and the entire Florida State University community during this tragic time.
3:33 p.m.: FBI Director Kash Patel releases statement regarding shooting investigation at FSU.
My team and I have been briefed on the tragic shooting at Florida State and our FBI Jacksonville team is on the ground assisting. We will provide full support to local law enforcement as needed. Please keep the FSU community in your prayers.
— FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) April 17, 2025
3:28 p.m.: TPD says the Florida State Campus has been secured following a shooting Thursday morning.
The @FloridaState campus has been secured. Multiple law enforcement agencies remain on site for the ongoing investigation. The Student Union & surrounding area are still considered an active crime scene. Individuals should not return to the area for any reason. (1/2)
— Tallahassee Police (@TallyPD) April 17, 2025
3:19 p.m.: Per FSU: Law enforcement has neutralized the threat. Please avoid the Student Union, Bellamy, HCB Classroom Building, Rovetta A&B, Moore Auditorium, Shaw, Pepper, Hecht House and Carraway as they are still considered an active crime scene.
Law enforcement has neutralized the threat. Please avoid the Student Union, Bellamy, HCB Classroom Building, Rovetta A&B, Moore Auditorium, Shaw, Pepper, Hecht House and Carraway as they are still considered an active crime scene. Individuals are free to m https://t.co/5EP1wzWR2L
— FSU Alert (@FSUAlert) April 17, 2025
Watch: Maya Sargent speaks to an FSU student following the shooting on campus.
3:14 p.m.: Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez releases statement regarding FSU shooting
What we are watching unfold at FSU is terrifying and every parent’s worst nightmare. We are continuing to monitor the news here in Tallahassee and urge everyone to pray for the students, families, faculty, first responders and all involved.
— Daniel Perez (@Daniel_PerezFL) April 17, 2025
3:10 p.m.: Governor Ron DeSantis responds to active shooter investigation on FSU.
Our prayers are with our FSU family and state law enforcement is actively responding. https://t.co/gT4mDwWsGC
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) April 17, 2025
3:05 p.m.: Senator Rick Scott releasing this message on X regarding this investigation. "Praying for the safety of everyone at FSU and a swift recovery for those injured. My team has been in touch with local law enforcement and continues to monitor the situation - students should continue to follow directions from school officials."
3:01 p.m.: All Florida State University classes and business operations on the main campus in Tallahassee are canceled through Friday, April 18. The Student Union and the surrounding area is still considered an active crime scene. Individuals should avoid the area. Students should not return to the Student Union to retrieve personal property at this time. Students may return to their residence halls but they should otherwise stay indoors on the main campus to allow first responders and university staff to do their jobs and respond to those needing assistance. Students may depart campus for the weekend.
Watch: Kenya Cardonne speaks to an FSU student following the shooting.
2:54 p.m.: Statement by Rep. Gallop Franklin Regarding Mass Shooting at Florida State University
As we actively monitor the tragic situation unfolding at Florida State University regarding the mass shooting, our deepest concerns are with the victims of this senseless act and their families. I am sincerely grateful for the quick reaction of first responders to the situation.
— Gallop Franklin II (@gallopfranklin) April 17, 2025
2:50 p.m.: Students are still encouraged to stay in place as Law enforcement is actively clearing rooms on the main campus.
This is a Emergency Message for Florida State University Tallahassee Campus.
— FSU Alert (@FSUAlert) April 17, 2025
Continue to shelter in place. Law enforcement is actively clearing rooms on the main campus. Law enforcement officers will use the safe word SEMINOLE to confirm it is safe to o https://t.co/IpxpEmskyj
2:45 p.m.: FAMU cancels classes for the rest of the day.
2:36 p.m.: Attorney General Pamela Bondi speaks out following the shooting on FSU campus. She says the FBI is on the scene.
The @FBI is on the scene at Florida State and we are in communication with agents on the ground. Our priority is the safety of everyone involved. We will keep updating as we learn more. Praying for all.
— Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) April 17, 2025
2:19 p.m.: Downtown Community Church is opening its doors for students, staff, and anyone who needs it. The church says they will have staff there through the evening for those who want to pray or talk about what happened today.
2:02 p.m.: All Florida State athletics home events through Sunday, April 20, have been canceled.
2:00 p.m.: Leon County Schools has lifted their lock out and returned to normal operations.
1:57 p.m.: TMH has now confirmed they're treating 6 people, with one person in critical condition and the others in serious condition.
1:51 p.m.: Per Tallahassee Police Department: Multiple law enforcement agencies are actively working to secure @FloridaStateUniversity campus. The student reunification point is being established at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.
1:43 p.m.: Per FSU: Continue to shelter in place. Police have responded to an active shooter call at the Student Union. Stay alert for more information. Persons in need of immediate emergency assistance should call 9-1-1 or FSUPD at 850-644-1234.
All classes and university events, including athletics, have been canceled for the day. Individuals not already on the main campus at this time should avoid coming to the Tallahassee main campus.
1:34 p.m.: According to ABC News, at least four people were injured during the incident. Sources also said a suspect is in custody.
12:51 p.m.: Senator Ashley Moody releases statement
My office has already been in contact with school leadership about the tragic reporting on FSU’s campus. I am praying for the safety of the students, faculty and all first responders involved.
— Senator Ashley Moody (@SenAshleyMoody) April 17, 2025
12:46 p.m.: Capitol Reporter Forrest Saunders says he's seen multiple people who have been injured loaded into ambulances outside the Student Union. He says one man was shackled by law enforcement before being taken from the scene.
I have seen multiple injured being loaded into ambulances outside the Student Union. One man was shackled by law enforcement before being taken from the scene. pic.twitter.com/OfzKCxuB1J
— Forrest Saunders (@FBSaunders) April 17, 2025
12:42 p.m.: Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare is actively receiving and caring for FSU students. No further information has been provided.
12:37 p.m.: All Leon County Schools are on lock out as a precaution as the active shooter investigation continues on Florida State Campus.
12:26 p.m.:
This is a Emergency Message for Florida State University Tallahassee Campus.
— FSU Alert (@FSUAlert) April 17, 2025
Continue to shelter in place. Police have responded to an active shooter call at the Student Union. Stay alert for more information.
Persons in need of immediate emergency ass https://t.co/VWifBqyLwW
An active shooter has been reported on the campus of Florida State in the area of the Student Union, according to the school.
Police are on scene or on the way. In the message sent to students, they are encouraged to seek shelter and await further instructions. Everyone is to lock and stay away from all doors and windows, and be prepared to take additional protective measures.
This is a developing story.
WTXL ABC 27 has a crew on the way to the scene.
An active shooter has been reported in the area of Student Union. Police are on scene or on the way. Continue to seek shelter and await further instructions. Lock and stay away from all doors and windows and be prepared to take additional protective measur https://t.co/cBrbt0cLe6
— FSU Alert (@FSUAlert) April 17, 2025
Want to see more local news? Visit the WTXL ABC 27 Website.
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