Authorities are releasing more details following a tragic shooting on the Florida State University campus Thursday afternoon that left two people dead and five others injured.
During a press briefing, Tallahassee police confirmed that the incident occurred around 11:50 a.m. near the FSU Student Union, in the heart of the university’s main campus. Officials stated that the two individuals who were killed were not enrolled students.
As a precaution, FSU has canceled all classes through Friday.
Suspect Identified as FSU Student, Son of Sheriff’s Deputy
The suspected gunman has been identified as a 20-year-old Florida State University student and the son of a long-serving Leon County sheriff’s deputy.
“This deputy has served our community with honor for over 18 years,” said Leon County Sheriff Walter McNeil. “Unfortunately, her son had access to one of her service weapons, which was recovered at the scene. Our investigation is ongoing as we determine how this weapon was used and whether additional firearms were involved.”
McNeil also confirmed that the suspect was previously involved with the Sheriff’s Office Youth Advisory Council, a program intended to foster leadership and civic responsibility among young adults.
Ongoing Investigation: Motive Still Unknown
At this time, law enforcement has not released a motive for the attack. The investigation remains active, with federal agents from the FBI assisting local authorities.
National Leaders Respond to FSU Shooting
In the hours following the tragedy, several national and state leaders issued statements offering condolences and support.
President Donald Trump, speaking from the White House, called the incident “a shame” and expressed concern for the university community.
FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that agents are on the ground in Jacksonville and pledged full support for the investigation. “Please keep the FSU community in your prayers,” he shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Homeland Security Director Kristi Noem echoed the sentiment: “My heart breaks for the students, their families, and faculty at Florida State University. There is no place in American society for violence. Our entire nation is praying for the victims and their families.”
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also offered his support, stating, “Our prayers are with our FSU family and state law enforcement is actively responding.”
Parkland Families React: ‘America is Broken’
The FSU shooting has reverberated deeply among survivors and families of victims of the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, which claimed 17 lives.
Fred Guttenberg, whose daughter Jaime was killed in the Parkland tragedy, shared his sorrow and frustration on social media.
“America is broken,” he wrote. “Many of Jaime’s friends who survived Parkland later enrolled at FSU. Some of them were present again today, caught in yet another act of senseless violence. As a father, I’ve worked tirelessly to advocate for safer schools since losing my daughter. It’s devastating that we’re still here.”
David Hogg, Parkland survivor and vice chair of the Democratic National Committee, called for more than condolences.
“It is absolutely horrific that this continues to happen time and time again as our politicians continue to only send their thoughts and prayers,” Hogg posted. “We must do more to end this epidemic of gun violence.”