Authorities have identified 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner as the gunman behind the Florida State University (FSU) shooting. He is from Tallahassee and is the son of Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy Jessica Ikner, according to WTSP.
Shooter Came from a Law Enforcement Background
Jessica Ikner works as a School Resource Officer in Leon County. Just days before the attack, she posted photos from a Florida Missing Children’s Day event. In the images, she was seen engaging with children. Previously, in 2022, she shared a message about parenting.
“Five minutes in the corner is better than five years in prison. Discipline them now so the system doesn’t have to do it later,” she wrote.
Shooter Used His Mother’s Former Service Weapon
During a Thursday evening press conference, officials confirmed that Phoenix used a firearm that once belonged to his mother. Jessica had legally purchased the gun after it was retired from service. At the time of the shooting, it was her personal property.
As a result, Leon County Sheriff Walt McNeil expressed deep sorrow.
“This event is tragic in more ways than you people in the audience could ever fathom from a law enforcement perspective,” he said.
“But I will tell you this, we will make sure that we do everything we can to prosecute and make sure that we send a message to folks that this will never be tolerated here in Leon County, and I dare say, across this state and across this nation.”
Shooter Was Previously Involved in Youth Council
Additionally, authorities revealed that Phoenix had been a member of the Leon County Sheriff’s Office Youth Advisory Council. This connection has added to the community’s shock and sadness.
FSU Campus Shooting Leaves Two Dead and Five Injured
The shooting happened just before noon on Thursday near FSU’s student union. According to reports, Phoenix opened fire and killed two people. He also injured five others. Fortunately, campus police responded quickly. They neutralized the shooter on site. As per USA Today, Phoenix was injured and transported to the hospital for treatment.
