Tallahassee, FL – A shooting at Florida State University on Thursday resulted in two fatalities and six injuries, sending shockwaves through the campus and the Tallahassee community. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, allegedly harbored “white supremacist views” that he shared with classmates before the attack, according to a former schoolmate.Ikner, who legally changed his name from Christian Eriksen, used a former service weapon belonging to his mother, Leon County Deputy Jessica Ikner, during the shooting, according to police. His biological mother,Anne-Mari Eriksen,told ABC News that she was initially worried he might be hurt. Upon learning he was the suspect, she “collapsed.”
“There’s so much that needs to be said about this, but I just can’t talk without crying. We need time to process all this,” she said.
The victims who tragically lost their lives have been identified as Tiru Chabba and Robert Morales, both fathers.According to Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell, Ikner will be taken to a local detention facility upon his release from the hospital, where he is expected to remain for some time. He will face charges “up to and including first-degree murder.”
Background and Potential Motives
While investigators have not yet officially revealed a motive, the alleged white supremacist views expressed by Ikner have drawn scrutiny. A classmate from Ikner’s former school claimed he was asked to leave a “political round table” club as he “espoused so much white supremacist rhetoric, and far-right rhetoric as well, to the point where we had to exercise that rule.”
Court records indicate Ikner had a “tumultuous childhood” as his biological mother was accused of removing him from the U.S. when he was 10.
The incident at FSU is the latest in a series of mass shootings that have plagued the United States, prompting renewed calls for stricter gun control measures and increased mental health support. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been over 150 mass shootings in the U.S. so far this year.
Political Reactions and Community Response
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and other state officials have responded to the news.President Donald Trump stated, “Thank you very much everybody, and I’ve been briefed on the Florida State University, Tallahassee, active shooting… It’s a shame, horrible thing, horrible that things like this take place, and we’ll have more to say about it later.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the White House is actively monitoring the situation.
Florida Speaker of the House rep. Danny Perez said today’s incident was “every parent’s worst nightmare” in a social media post.
FSU student Daniella Streety described the scene: “I did see them carry out one student in what looked like on a stretcher and kept them in the road until an ambulance was able to pick them up.Directly across from me there’s a building about 50 feet outside of the window… There was a student injured there as well and they had to transport them in a desk chair to the road to then be transported via ambulance.”
While mass shootings spark debate about gun control, some argue that focusing solely on firearms ignores the complex underlying issues, such as mental health, social isolation, and the spread of extremist ideologies. Some propose a multi-faceted approach that includes addressing these factors in addition to sensible gun safety regulations.
Campus Safety Measures
Following the shooting, Florida State University officials announced a review of campus security protocols. This includes increased police presence, enhanced mental health resources for students, and active shooter training sessions. They also are exploring expanding access to the campus alert system.
The Impact of White Supremacist Ideologies
Experts note the rise in white supremacist ideologies online and offline, which can contribute to radicalization and violence. Combating these ideologies requires a multi-pronged approach, including education, community engagement, and law enforcement efforts. The Southern Poverty Law center tracks hate groups and extremist activities across the country.
FAQ: Understanding Campus Safety and Support
Q: What resources are available for students who are struggling with mental health issues after the shooting?
A: Many universities, including FSU, offer counseling services, support groups, and mental health workshops. Check your university’s website or student affairs office for a comprehensive list of resources.
Q: What steps should I take if I witness suspicious behavior on campus?
A: Report any suspicious behavior to campus security or local law enforcement immediately. Provide as much detail as possible, including descriptions of individuals, vehicles, and the nature of the suspicious activity.
Q: How can I stay informed about campus safety alerts and emergencies?
A: Sign up for your university’s emergency alert system, which typically sends notifications via text message, email, and social media. Also,be aware of campus safety protocols,such as evacuation routes and shelter-in-place procedures.
Q: Where can concerned citizens find information about donating to support families?
A: check the official website of Florida State University or reputable local news outlets for information about official fundraising efforts to support the victims’ families. Be wary of unofficial campaigns to avoid scams.
Q: What are some common active shooter training techniques?
A: The “Run, Hide, Fight” method is a popular choice.Run (evacuate) if there is an accessible escape path, without trying to help others. Hide if evacuation is not possible, and lock and barricade the door. Fight as a last resort when your life is in imminent danger.
