Florida State University plunged into chaos Thursday afternoon as an active shooter opened fire near the Student Union, leaving at least six people injured, one of them critically.
The incident triggered an immediate lockdown across the Tallahassee campus and a massive law enforcement response from local and state authorities.
According to Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, all six victims are being treated, with five reported in serious condition. The hospital confirmed the patients were transported from the Florida State University campus, where emergency crews rushed to the scene following multiple 911 calls about gunfire.
Police have confirmed a suspect is in custody, though details about their identity or motive remain unclear. Law enforcement officials say the area is now secure, but investigations are ongoing and portions of the campus remain under lockdown.
“I’m shaking,” said 21-year-old Emily Palmer, an FSU student who was near the scene. “I have friends in class who were evacuated with their hands up.”
Footage and eyewitness accounts captured the sheer panic, with students fleeing buildings and others being escorted out by police with hands raised. One student, Joshua Sirmans, recounted being in the university library when alarms blared, warning of an active shooter. “Officers came and told us to get out with our hands up,” he said.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Our prayers are with our FSU family,” while confirming that state law enforcement was actively involved in the response.
The FSU Alert system issued multiple warnings urging students and faculty to shelter in place. “An active shooter has been reported in the area of Student Union. Police are on scene or on the way. Lock and stay away from all doors and windows,” one alert read.
As of now, authorities have not confirmed if the shooting was targeted or random. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is assisting in the investigation.
Thursday’s shooting marks yet another tragic instance of campus violence, reigniting concerns around school safety and emergency preparedness. With one victim still fighting for their life, the university community remains on edge, waiting for more answers.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
