Shooting at Florida State University: Two Dead, Deputy’s Son in Custody

Two people were killed, and six others are being treated for gunshot wounds at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare. One of the victims is in critical condition.

Shooter Had Close Ties to Law Enforcement

Authorities have identified the suspect as a 20-year-old man who is the son of a deputy with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. According to Sheriff Walter McNeil, the suspect had access to one of his mother’s former service weapons, which was recovered at the scene.

“Unfortunately, her son had access to one of her weapons, and it was found at the scene,” McNeil stated, adding that the investigation is ongoing to determine whether the suspect had access to additional firearms.

Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell clarified that the weapon had previously been used by the deputy in the line of duty before being retained as a personal firearm after being replaced.

The suspect had participated in youth training programs associated with local law enforcement. “So it doesn’t surprise us that he had access to weapons,” McNeil added.

Eyewitnesses Shaken: ‘He Shot in My Direction’

Several students have shared harrowing accounts from the campus during the shooting. One Florida State student described the shooter as a “normal college dude” wearing an orange T-shirt and khaki shorts.

“I was walking, and this guy pulls up in an orange Hummer,” the student recalled. “He gets out with a rifle and shoots in my direction.”

Other students took cover, barricading themselves inside classrooms with chairs and desks, while the university’s emergency alert system, FSU Alert, warned of an active shooter near the student union.

Messages urged students to shelter in place, avoid windows and doors, and prepare to take protective action.

‘A Tragic Day’ for the FSU Community

University President Richard McCullough expressed his deep sorrow and commended law enforcement for their swift response.

“We are heartbroken over the act of violence that took place on our campus earlier today. Our hearts go out to our students and to the victims of this terrible tragedy,” he said during a press conference.

He praised the university police for preventing what could have become an even greater loss of life. “Our campus police are true heroes in this situation,” McCullough added.

Statewide Response and Solidarity

Even rival institutions showed support. University of Florida President Kent Fuchs wrote on X, formerly Twitter, “Our most caring thoughts and deepest sympathies go out to the Florida State University family.”

The investigation remains active, with multiple agencies, including the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, involved. The suspect is in custody and receiving medical treatment.

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