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TALLAHASSEE, FL — A major law enforcement response unfolded at Florida State University on Thursday following an active shooter incident that left at least six people injured and forced a full campus lockdown. The violence occurred near the Student Union, prompting university officials to issue urgent shelter-in-place orders and suspend all campus operations.
The first reports came just after noon on April 17, when police responded to a 911 call about an active shooter at the Student Union. Within minutes, alerts were sent across campus warning students, faculty, and staff to seek shelter and remain in place. Police from multiple agencies, including Tallahassee Police Department and Florida State University Police, converged on the scene and began clearing buildings room by room.
At least six individuals were reportedly injured in the shooting, according to Fox News and local authorities. Their conditions have not yet been disclosed, and it remains unclear whether any of the victims sustained life-threatening injuries.
By approximately 3:20 p.m., officials announced that the threat had been neutralized. However, several campus buildings—including the Student Union, Bellamy, HCB Classroom Building, Rovetta A&B, Moore Auditorium, Shaw, Pepper, Hecht House, and Carraway—remain closed as active crime scenes. Authorities have urged students and staff not to return to those areas.
The university established a reunification point at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, where students and families are being provided with counseling, medical care, and other support services. Shuttle buses are transporting students from campus to the center throughout the day.
All FSU classes and operations on the main campus are canceled through Friday, April 18. Athletic events scheduled in Tallahassee are canceled through Sunday. While students may return to their residence halls, they are advised to stay indoors unless departing campus for the weekend.
Law enforcement continues to investigate the motive behind the shooting and the identity of the suspect. No arrests have been publicly confirmed at this time. Officials are asking anyone with relevant information or who may have witnessed the event to call 850-891-4987.
Further updates are being posted at alerts.fsu.edu, and a press briefing is expected later in the evening via the Tallahassee Police Department’s Facebook page.
Tragic events like this highlight the importance of being prepared even in everyday environments like school campuses. When carrying a firearm is not legally allowed—such as on many college campuses—knowing emergency protocols, maintaining situational awareness, and staying calm under pressure become your most important tools for survival. Always take time to familiarize yourself with building layouts, exit routes, and shelter locations wherever you are.
