The motive is unclear.
Authorities are continuing to investigate what led Florida State University student Phoenix Ikner, 20, to allegedly carry out a deadly shooting on campus, which left two people dead and six others injured. The incident unfolded Thursday afternoon when police responded to reports of gunfire. Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell stated that officers shot and wounded Ikner after he failed to obey their commands. Investigators believe Ikner used his mother’s former service weapon in the attack—a handgun she kept after the sheriff’s office upgraded to newer firearms.
Phoenix Ikner, identified as a political science student, had previously been quoted in an FSU newspaper article discussing anti-Trump protests, though that quote was later removed in an editorial decision to avoid highlighting the voice of someone involved in violence. Officials also revealed that Ikner was closely tied to the Leon County Sheriff’s Office through his mother, Jessica Ikner, a longtime deputy with over 18 years of service. Sheriff Walt McNeil confirmed that Ikner had participated in several department programs, including the Youth Advisory Council, which aims to involve teens in community issues and law enforcement initiatives.
According to Revell, five of the victims suffered gunshot wounds, while a sixth was injured while fleeing the scene. Ikner remains hospitalized with serious but not life-threatening injuries. Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare reported Friday that two victims would be released that day, while three others were improving, and one remained in fair condition. Eyewitness Aidan Stickney, a business management student, recounted seeing the attacker attempt to use a shotgun that jammed before switching to a handgun and opening fire. Stickney ran while calling 911 and warning others.
The victims who died were not enrolled at FSU, and officials believe Ikner acted alone. As a precaution, the university canceled all classes and events through the weekend. A candlelight vigil is scheduled to take place on Friday evening at Langford Green in front of the Unconquered Statue, providing a space for the community to mourn and reflect.
University President Richard McCullough addressed the shooting in a statement posted on social media, describing it as a “tragic and senseless act of violence.” Authorities continue to investigate how Ikner gained access to the weapon and what might have motivated the attack, while stressing that the case remains an active investigation.
