Tragic Shooting Incident at Florida State University Claims Two Lives

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- A devastating shooting incident at Florida State University on Thursday resulted in two fatalities and six injuries, prompting a significant outpouring of grief from the campus community. A vigil was held on Friday evening at Langford Green, where thousands of students, faculty, and staff gathered to honor the victims.

The assailant, identified as Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old student and the stepson of a local sheriff's deputy, commenced his attack shortly before lunchtime. Witnesses reported that Ikner arrived on campus an hour prior and was seen wandering near a parking garage, entering and exiting buildings while discharging a firearm. Law enforcement officials were able to confront Ikner within approximately four minutes, during which he was shot and wounded.

While the identities of the deceased have not been officially released, family members confirmed one victim to be Robert Morales, a dining coordinator at the university since 2015. Morales, who had previously studied criminology at Florida State, was well-known within the campus community. The second victim was identified as Tiru Chabba, a 45-year-old father of two from South Carolina, who was employed by the university's food service provider, Aramark.

In addition to the two fatalities, six others were injured in the assault. Medical personnel at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare reported that all six victims received treatment for gunshot wounds, with three undergoing surgery. Fortunately, all are expected to survive. Classes were canceled on Friday, but many students returned to campus to retrieve personal items they had left behind in the chaos.

The nature of the tragedy is compounded by the fact that it occurred just hours before a scheduled forum aimed at promoting safety and combating hate on campus. This event was dedicated to the memory of Maura Binkley, a student who lost her life in a mass shooting at a yoga studio in 2018. Some attendees of the vigil expressed their collective grief and solidarity, recalling the past traumas associated with gun violence.

Authorities have indicated that Ikner utilized a firearm previously owned by his stepmother, who has served as a resource officer within the Leon County Sheriff's Office for 18 years. Following the incident, she requested personal leave and has since been reassigned.

Ikner, who had a history of being involved in community programs aimed at fostering communication between youth and law enforcement, was pursuing a degree in political science at Florida State. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing.

The tragic event has reignited discussions about campus safety and gun violence in educational institutions, with community leaders emphasizing the need for healing and support for those affected.