UPDATE: The suspected shooter has been identified as the 20-year-old son of a Leon County sheriff’s deputy, according to the sheriff’s office in a live briefing. Authorities also confirmed that two people were killed and five others were injured in the shooting.
TALLAHASSEE, FL — Six people were hospitalized Thursday afternoon after a shooting on Florida State University’s campus, prompting a large law enforcement response and hours-long lockdown.
Gunfire broke out near the Student Union shortly before noon on April 17, according to an emergency alert issued by FSU. Officials with Tallahassee Memorial Hospital confirmed that six victims were transported for treatment with serious injuries. According to local reports, there was at least one suspect with a handgun.
Law enforcement officials said a suspect was taken into custody after an exchange of gunfire with police. As of 2:18 p.m. CST, the Tallahassee Police Department confirmed the campus had been secured. However, the Student Union and surrounding area remain an active crime scene, and officials are urging the public to stay away.
Authorities from FSU Police, Tallahassee Police, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the FBI responded to the scene.
Eyewitnesses described students fleeing from the Student Union building. One witness, who was having lunch with his daughter, said they heard the gunfire and saw people running. Others reported hearing 15 to 20 gunshots before taking shelter.
FSU established a reunification point at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, where buses transported students away from the scene.
“Our prayers are with our FSU family and state law enforcement is actively responding,” said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.
President Donald Trump also addressed the situation during a press conference, calling it “a horrible thing.”
Officials are still investigating the events that led up to the shooting.
The identity of the suspect and potential motive have not yet been released.
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