Two Dead, Several Wounded in Florida State University Shooting

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — A gunman opened fire at Florida State University (FSU) on Thursday, leaving two people dead and at least six others wounded, according to police. The incident prompted a campus-wide lockdown and a massive response from multiple law enforcement agencies. The shooter, identified as a 20-year-old believed to be a student at the university, was also receiving medical attention after an exchange of gunfire with police.

Chaos Erupts at Student Union

The shooting occurred near the student union around noon, sending students and faculty scrambling for safety. The university issued an active shooter alert, urging individuals to seek shelter and await further instructions. Students described scenes of panic as they barricaded doors, hid in bowling alleys, and crammed into service elevators to escape the gunfire. Ambulances, fire trucks, and patrol vehicles descended upon the campus, located just west of Florida's capital.

Ryan Cedergren, a 21-year-old communications student, recounted hiding in the bowling alley in the union's lower level with approximately 30 others after witnessing students fleeing a nearby bar. "In that moment, it was survival," he said. Chris Pento, who was on a campus tour with his twins, described the scene as "surreal" as people began running after hearing gunshots.

Victims and Suspect

According to Florida State University Police Chief Jason Trumbower, the two individuals killed in the shooting were not students at the university. Five people were transported to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital for treatment of their injuries. The shooter, whose name has not been officially released, was also receiving medical care. Authorities have stated that the 20-year-old gunman was the son of a sheriff's deputy and used the deputy's former service weapon in the shooting.

Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare confirmed they were treating six patients, with one in critical condition and the others in serious condition. The hospital assured the community that they were prepared to provide the highest level of care and support to all those affected.

University Response and Investigation

Following the shooting, Florida State University canceled all classes and events for Thursday and home athletic events through Sunday. The university announced that law enforcement had "neutralized the threat" approximately three hours after the initial alert. Multiple law enforcement agencies remained on site to conduct an ongoing investigation. The FBI also responded to the scene, coordinating with campus, city, and state officials.

Florida State University President Richard McCullough expressed his condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the university's commitment to the safety and well-being of its students and staff. He praised the swift response of law enforcement and first responders.

A Community in Mourning

The shooting at Florida State University marks another tragic incident in a year already marred by gun violence. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been 81 mass shootings in the U.S. so far in 2025. This incident is not the first time the university has experienced gun violence. In 2014, a gunman opened fire in the university's library, wounding three people before being shot and killed by police.

The Florida State University community is grappling with the aftermath of the shooting, offering support and resources to students, faculty, and staff. A student reunification point was established at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center to help connect students with their families. Counselors and mental health professionals are available to provide assistance to those affected by the tragedy.

The shooting at Florida State University has reignited the debate over gun control and campus safety. Lawmakers and community leaders are calling for action to prevent future tragedies and ensure the safety of students and educational institutions. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the victims and their families and healing the Florida State University community.