Florida State University Mass Shooting: 2 Killed, 5 Injured by Former Student with Deputy Mother’s Gun
April 18, 2025 | Tallahassee, Florida – A tragic shooting at Florida State University (FSU) on Thursday afternoon claimed two lives and injured five others after a former student, Phoenix Ikner, opened fire on campus using a weapon allegedly belonging to his mother—a local sheriff’s deputy.
Ikner, 20, was hospitalized after being shot by law enforcement. His current condition remains unknown.
FSU President Richard McCullough addressed the community:
“We’re absolutely heartbroken. The university is working to support all students, faculty, and staff affected by this horrific act.”
Students reported chaos near the student union as the sound of gunfire sent people running for cover. Footage shared online showed individuals evacuating with hands raised. One eyewitness recalled hearing eight to ten shots.
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“Everyone just started running. It was surreal,” said student Wayne, who witnessed the attack unfold outside the union.
Another student, Sam Swartz, shared how he and a group barricaded themselves with trash cans and plywood, trying to survive.
Sheriff Walt McNeil confirmed the weapon used was tied to his department:
“Her son had access to one of her old service weapons… It’s not a surprise given his training background.”
This incident adds to the growing toll of gun violence in the U.S. According to the Gun Violence Archive, this marks the 81st mass shooting in the country in 2025.
President Donald Trump called the attack “a horrible thing” but stood firm on gun rights:
“The gun doesn’t do the shooting — the people do. I’m a big advocate of the Second Amendment.”
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