A blond gunman drove onto the Florida State University campus in a bright orange Hummer and opened fire around midday Thursday, leaving two dead, six people seriously injured and a community in shock.
Shooter Targets Student Union
Witnesses say the shooter, dressed in an orange shirt and khaki shorts, looked like an average student. He pulled up to the student union and started firing, sending rounds into crowds of students and faculty. McKenzie Heeter, a student at the scene, said he fired around 15 shots.
Police quickly responded and placed the campus on lockdown. One suspect is in custody, but itโs still unclear if he was the man seen driving the Hummer. Conflicting early reports mentioned a possible second shooter, but police have not confirmed those claims.
Victims Rushed to Hospital
Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare confirmed it is treating six victims. One remains in critical condition, and the rest are seriously hurt. The hospital said its team is fully mobilized and working with local authorities.
Students Run, Hide, and Seek Shelter
Videos from the scene show terrified students fleeing or hiding under desks. In one clip, someone bangs on a classroom door yelling โopen up,โ but the students stay silent, too afraid to move.
Other images show students calling loved ones and comforting one another. Blankets, food, and backpacks were left scattered on the lawn as students fled.
Lockdown and Law Enforcement Response
Florida State University canceled all classes and events for the day. Nearby Leon County schools also went into lockdown. The Tallahassee Fire Department took control of the scene, while the Leon County Sheriffโs Office deployed helicopters.
Police later discovered a gray sedan with a weapon inside and seized multiple firearms, including a shotgun and a pistol. Authorities confirmed the arrested suspect had a weapon on him.
FBI Joins the Case
By late afternoon, the FBI announced it was joining the investigation. A press conference from law enforcement is expected soon to clarify ongoing concerns, including the possibility of a second shooter.
This is not the first time tragedy has struck FSU. In 2014, a former student opened fire inside the campus library, injuring three people before police killed him.
Leaders React as Investigation Continues
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis released a statement saying his prayers are with the FSU family. Former President Donald Trump said he had been fully briefed on the situation.
