Mass Shooting
Florida State University was shaken by tragedy on Thursday as a mass shooting unfolded near the campus Student Union, leaving five people dead and at least six others injured. The midday attack triggered a swift lockdown and a massive law enforcement response as students, faculty, and staff were told to shelter in place.
The incident began shortly before noon when reports of an active shooter on campus were confirmed by university officials and an FSU Alert was issued across campus communication channels. Chaos erupted as students scrambled for safety, locking themselves in classrooms, residence halls, and nearby buildings.
According to authorities, one of the suspected shooters was fatally shot at the scene, while another individual was taken into custody without incident. Law enforcement has not yet disclosed the identities of the suspects or victims, and the motive behind the attack remains under investigation. The FBI has joined state and local authorities in the investigation.
Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare confirmed that six people were hospitalized following the incident. One of the victims remains in critical condition. The university’s counseling center has extended hours and mobilized additional staff to support students and faculty impacted by the tragedy.
In a press conference Thursday afternoon, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis called the shooting “an unspeakable act of violence against a community of learning,” and pledged the full support of state resources in the ongoing investigation. Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed those sentiments, calling for a renewed national conversation on school safety and gun violence.
Classes and university events were immediately canceled for the remainder of the day, including a scheduled baseball game between FSU and the University of Virginia. Campus officials have not yet indicated when operations will resume, but safety remains the top priority.
This marks the third shooting incident on FSU’s campus in the past decade, reigniting fears and concerns among students, faculty, and families. Advocacy groups have already begun organizing vigils and calling for action on gun reform.
“This is supposed to be a safe place where we learn and grow,” said FSU junior Hannah Collins, who was studying inside Strozier Library when the alerts went out. “I’m heartbroken. I’m angry. This shouldn’t keep happening.”
FSU President Richard McCullough released a statement mourning the loss of life and expressing solidarity with those affected. “We are devastated by today’s events,” he wrote. “Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone shaken by this senseless act. We will come together as a community to grieve, to heal, and to demand change.”
The area surrounding the Student Union remains cordoned off as investigators continue to process the scene. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident or the suspects involved to contact the FSU Police Department immediately.
As Florida State begins the difficult process of healing, students and faculty have taken to social media to share their experiences, offer support, and demand accountability. What was meant to be an ordinary Thursday has instead become a grim chapter in the university’s history—a reminder of the urgent need to address violence in educational spaces.
Tallahassee, FL — April 17, 2025
Florida State University was shaken by tragedy on Thursday as a mass shooting unfolded near the campus Student Union, leaving five people dead and at least six others injured. The midday attack triggered a swift lockdown and a massive law enforcement response as students, faculty, and staff were told to shelter in place.
The incident began shortly before noon when reports of an active shooter on campus were confirmed by university officials and an FSU Alert was issued across campus communication channels. Chaos erupted as students scrambled for safety, locking themselves in classrooms, residence halls, and nearby buildings.
According to authorities, one of the suspected shooters was fatally shot at the scene, while another individual was taken into custody without incident. Law enforcement has not yet disclosed the identities of the suspects or victims, and the motive behind the attack remains under investigation. The FBI has joined state and local authorities in the investigation.
Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare confirmed that six people were hospitalized following the incident. One of the victims remains in critical condition. The university’s counseling center has extended hours and mobilized additional staff to support students and faculty impacted by the tragedy.
In a press conference Thursday afternoon, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis called the shooting “an unspeakable act of violence against a community of learning,” and pledged the full support of state resources in the ongoing investigation. Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed those sentiments, calling for a renewed national conversation on school safety and gun violence.
Classes and university events were immediately canceled for the remainder of the day, including a scheduled baseball game between FSU and the University of Virginia. Campus officials have not yet indicated when operations will resume, but safety remains the top priority.
This marks the third shooting incident on FSU’s campus in the past decade, reigniting fears and concerns among students, faculty, and families. Advocacy groups have already begun organizing vigils and calling for action on gun reform.
“This is supposed to be a safe place where we learn and grow,” said FSU junior Hannah Collins, who was studying inside Strozier Library when the alerts went out. “I’m heartbroken. I’m angry. This shouldn’t keep happening.”
FSU President Richard McCullough released a statement mourning the loss of life and expressing solidarity with those affected. “We are devastated by today’s events,” he wrote. “Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and everyone shaken by this senseless act. We will come together as a community to grieve, to heal, and to demand change.”
The area surrounding the Student Union remains cordoned off as investigators continue to process the scene. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident or the suspects involved to contact the FSU Police Department immediately.
As Florida State begins the difficult process of healing, students and faculty have taken to social media to share their experiences, offer support, and demand accountability. What was meant to be an ordinary Thursday has instead become a grim chapter in the university’s history—a reminder of the urgent need to address violence in educational spaces.
