Phoenix Ikner: What We Know About the FSU Shooting Suspect

Authorities in the United States have disclosed new information about the suspect involved in the shooting that took place on Thursday at Florida State University (FSU) in Tallahassee, resulting in at least two fatalities and several injuries. The alleged shooter has been identified as Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old student at the university and the son of a Leon County Sheriff's deputy, as confirmed by Sheriff Walt McNeil during a press conference.

Ikner was not unfamiliar to law enforcement circles. Sheriff McNeil highlighted that the young man was a member of the Sheriff's Department's Youth Advisory Council and had actively participated in training programs organized by the agency. "The fact that he had access to a weapon is not surprising," McNeil stated, noting that Ikner was a familiar figure within the department due to his youth involvement.

Currently, Ikner is hospitalized with a wound, though authorities have not specified the severity of his condition or whether he was injured during his apprehension or the shooting itself.

Weapon Access and Investigation

Preliminary investigations suggest that Ikner used a handgun belonging to his mother, a veteran with 18 years of service at the Leon County Sheriff's Department. The firearm was a former service weapon that had been legally acquired by the officer. "Unfortunately, her son had access to one of her firearms, and that was one of the ones found at the scene," McNeil confirmed. Authorities are continuing to investigate whether Ikner had access to other weapons and how he obtained the one used in the shooting.

The Incident and Immediate Response

The attack occurred around 11:50 a.m. on Thursday, near the student union building at FSU. The university promptly activated its emergency alert system, instructing students and staff to shelter in place due to the presence of an active shooter. A robust security operation was launched by the FBI and local law enforcement agencies. By approximately 3:00 p.m., the alert system announced that the threat had been "neutralized," allowing students to return to their residences. However, authorities advise avoiding the student center area, which remains an active crime scene as investigations continue.

Community and Institutional Reactions

At this time, the identities of the deceased victims have not been disclosed, and the motive behind the attack remains undetermined. Authorities assure that the investigation is ongoing, with more details to be provided as the case progresses. Following the attack, FSU President Richard McCullough addressed the university community to denounce the "tragic and senseless act of violence" that transpired on campus.

"We are heartbroken. We mourn alongside the families, friends, and loved ones of those who lost their lives," McCullough expressed. "We hold the injured close and support all who are suffering."

Expressions of support have emerged from other academic institutions as well. Interim President of the University of Florida, Kent Fuchs, posted a message on social media platform X directed at the FSU community. "Our warmest thoughts and deepest condolences to the Florida State University family," Fuchs wrote. "Our hearts are with everyone affected by the shootings and their loved ones."