A Thursday shooting at Florida State University has left several people hurt, with authorities confirming that a suspect is in custody. The details were released by an individual who was familiar with the investigation, spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity, since they were not cleared to make the information public.
Even though the level of injuries among the victims continues to be determined, officials in Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare reported that no less than six individuals have been hospitalized. The status of one of the victims continues to remain critical, whereas others are seriously in condition. Emergency responders such as ambulances, fire engines, and police cars swarmed to the FSU campus soon after the university sent out an active shooter alert during midday. The alert indicated the vicinity of the student union, which is mere minutes from Florida’s Capitol building in Tallahassee.
FSU, a state-owned institution among the state’s 12 public universities, has about 44,300 students, its 2024 fact sheet reveals. Hundreds of students fled in fear after the shooting. Others were heard talking on their phones, some crying, while others hugged each other in fear and uncertainty. There was a gathering of students in front of the music school, waiting anxiously for news.
Eyewitnesses Describe Scare During Shooting Incident
Ryan Cedergren, a 21-year-old communications major, remembered taking cover with around 30 other people in the basement bowling alley of the student union. “At that point, it was about surviving,” he said. The university police cleared them out after 15 minutes. He witnessed someone being given emergency treatment on the lawn in front of the union.
Another student, 20-year-old Joshua Sirmans, was in the university library when alarms started ringing. “Law enforcement officers escorted us out of the library with hands over our heads,” he recalled, describing tense moments.
Authorities Respond, Trump Informed About Shooting
President Donald Trump discussed the shooting at the start of his Oval Office session with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. “It’s a terrible thing. It’s terrible that such things happen,” Trump told reporters, stating he had been “completely briefed” on the shooting.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also tweeted on X (formerly Twitter), providing condolences: “Our prayers are with our FSU family and state law enforcement is actively responding.”
Justice Department and FBI Provide Assistance
Attorney General Pam Bondi made it official that the Justice Department is in communication with FBI agents on the scene, saying, “Our priority is the safety of everyone involved.” FBI Director Kash Patel was in agreement with her, indicating the Jacksonville field office had reacted. “We will offer complete support to local law enforcement as necessary. Please pray for the FSU community,” Patel stated in a message.
While investigations go on, law enforcement officials remain vigilant, safeguarding students and teachers and uncovering the reason behind the assault.
