Florida State University (FSU) issued an emergency alert this Thursday following reports of an active shooter in the Student Union area of its main campus in Tallahassee.
According to the official statement published at 12:40 p.m. (local time) on the university's alert site, authorities indicated: “Continue to shelter in place. Police have responded to a report of an active shooter at the Student Union. Stay alert for further information.”
FSU also reported that all classes, university events, and scheduled sporting activities for this Thursday, April 17, have been canceled, and advised those not on campus to avoid going to the area.
The message also includes emergency contacts for those who need immediate assistance: 911 or the direct number for the university's Police Department (FSUPD) at 850-644-1234.
The university community was urged to follow the official updates from the FSU Alerts system, the institution's emergency communication channel, and to refresh the website to be aware of any changes in the operational status of the university.
The Meteorology student at Florida State University, Garrett Harvey, shared on his X account (@WeatherGarrett) a video showing several people running in the vicinity of the campus, accompanied by the message: “There is a shooting around the Student Union. People are running down TN street.”
According to CNN, a suspect in the shooting that occurred this Thursday at FSU is already in custody. Two law enforcement officials indicated that preliminary reports suggest there may be injuries, although specific details about the extent of the incident have not yet been released.
In statements to the television station, Emily Palmer, a 21-year-old student, recounted that she was near the student center when she was alerted to a "dangerous situation."
From her university residence, she expressed: "I'm trembling... A lot of things are happening. I'm worried about my friends. I have classmates who are being evacuated by the police with their hands up."
Also to CNN, Richard Rind, director of Transportation and Parking at the university, stated that he was confined inside a nearby building while the incident was unfolding.
"There are many emergency vehicles at the scene, but you can't see much because we are confined in a building across the street," he stated, adding that he heard gunshots and saw people running.
The incident has prompted a significant response from emergency services in Tallahassee, as the university community remains on alert and sheltered while awaiting further information.
On its part, Telemundo reported that at least four people were hospitalized following the shooting at FSU.
The television station also reported that the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH) medical center is receiving and providing active care to the patients affected by the incident at the University.
"We want to assure the community that our teams are fully mobilized and prepared to provide the highest level of care and support to everyone affected," stated a representative of TMH.
The institution stated that it is in coordination with emergency services and public security authorities.
"For the sake of the patient's privacy and to ensure the accuracy of the information, we will provide updates as soon as they become available," the spokesperson added.
TMH requested patience and understanding from the community and reiterated its commitment to keeping the public informed as new details emerge.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Shooting at Florida State University
What happened at Florida State University on April 17, 2025?
On April 17, 2025, Florida State University issued an emergency alert regarding an active shooter in the Student Union area of its main campus in Tallahassee. Authorities urged the university community to take shelter and remain vigilant for further updates.
What measures were taken following the shooting alert at FSU?
After the shooting alert, all classes, university events, and sports activities scheduled for April 17 were canceled. Those who were not on campus were advised to avoid going to the location.
How can FSU students and staff obtain more information about the emergency situation?
Students and staff at Florida State University must follow the official updates from the FSU Alerts system, the institution's emergency communication channel. They are also encouraged to refresh the webpage to stay informed about any changes in the university's operational status.
What security measures have been implemented in other educational institutions in Florida?
In Florida, security actions have been implemented such as regular inspections and strict protocols for vehicles and school transportation infrastructure. This is crucial to prevent tragic incidents, such as the school bus fires that previously occurred in the state.
Filed under:
