In a tragic incident on the campus of Florida State University (FSU), a shooting occurred that left two individuals dead and several others injured. The alleged shooter, 20-year-old Phoenix Iikner, a current student at FSU and the stepson of a deputy sheriff, has not provided law enforcement with a motive, invoking his right to remain silent.
The shooting took place near the student union just before noon on a Thursday. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as police responded to the emergency, leading to lockdowns across the campus, which accommodates approximately 45,000 students. Iikner was reportedly confronted by law enforcement and shot when he refused to disarm. He is currently hospitalized.
Iikner’s background has raised questions, particularly regarding his family ties. His stepmother, a long-serving deputy sheriff in Leon County, allegedly had a weapon used in the shooting accessible to him. This firearm was reportedly a previous service weapon that she had transitioned away from, highlighting concerns about gun safety and access within law enforcement families. The sheriff’s office is conducting an investigation into how Iikner gained access to the weapon.
Reports indicate that Iikner was involved in a youth advisory council that aimed to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, which contrasts sharply with the actions he is now accused of taking. Classmates have expressed surprise at his involvement in the shooting, with some recalling his far-right views and interest in conspiracy theories. One classmate noted that Iikner had openly discussed his ownership of firearms, leading to an unsettling realization upon hearing of the attack.
The victims of the shooting have been identified, including Robert Morales, a 57-year-old dining services employee at FSU, who was remembered fondly by his family. Neither of the deceased were students at the university, but five others remain hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the incident.
In the wake of the shooting, FSU has canceled classes and sporting events for the remainder of the week and is holding a vigil to honor the victims. The campus remains a crime scene as investigators sift through evidence and witness statements to piece together the events that unfolded.
Authorities are now focusing on the investigation, which includes examining Iikner’s online presence and history. Investigators are expected to conduct thorough background checks, including looking into his social media accounts, which were quickly deleted following the shooting, and examining any potential connections to mental health issues.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are appealing to anyone who may have interacted with Iikner or have information related to the incident to come forward. The complexities of the case, including Iikner’s family background and his psychological history, will likely be scrutinized as investigators attempt to understand the motivations behind this tragic event.
The FSU community is grappling with the aftermath of the shooting, reflecting on the impact of gun violence on college campuses and the broader implications for safety and security in educational institutions. As authorities work to uncover the details surrounding the shooting, the focus remains on supporting the victims and their families during this difficult time.