Tragedy unfolded on the Florida State University campus Thursday morning when a 20-year-old gunman opened fire near the Student Union, leaving two dead and six injured. Authorities have identified the suspect as Phoenix Ikner, the son of a longtime Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy.
Leon County Sheriff Walter McNeil confirmed that the accused shooter is the son of Deputy Jessica Ikner, a veteran of the department with over 18 years of service. She previously worked as a school resource officer and remains a respected figure within the agency.
“This isn’t a surprise to us that he had access to weapons,” McNeil said. “It’s a heartbreaking situation, especially for someone so closely tied to our law enforcement family.”
Authorities say Ikner used one of his mother’s service firearms during the rampage. Investigators recovered the weapon at the scene and are currently examining how he obtained it.
In an unsettling twist, Phoenix Ikner was once part of the Leon County Sheriff’s Youth Advisory Council, a program designed to build bridges between local law enforcement and the youth community. Ikner joined the council during the 2021-2022 term, learning leadership skills and participating in community outreach efforts.
Sheriff McNeil expressed disbelief over Ikner’s transformation, stating he had been “steeped” in the sheriff’s office community and participated in multiple training programs. “It’s deeply troubling to see someone who once stood for service and engagement take such a violent turn,” McNeil added.
The shooting began just before noon on Thursday, erupting near FSU’s bustling Student Union building. Witnesses described chaos as shots rang out and students scrambled for safety.
When officers arrived on the scene, they quickly engaged Ikner, ultimately shooting and taking him into custody. Authorities confirmed that two individuals, neither of whom were students, died in the attack. Six others sustained injuries and were rushed to local hospitals.
Ikner himself was also hospitalized following the incident. Authorities reported that he has refused to speak with investigators, invoking his right to remain silent.
Sheriff McNeil vowed to pursue justice to the fullest extent of the law, emphasizing the severity of the crime. “This event is a tragedy, but let me be clear… we will not tolerate this kind of violence in Leon County. We are committed to making sure justice is served, and to sending a clear message across Florida and the nation.”
As the investigation continues, the FSU community and local residents are left grappling with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence… one that strikes especially close to home for the sheriff’s department.
