Police Reveal Identity of FSU Shooting Suspect, 20, Who Has a Shocking Connection to the Sheriff’s Office
ArchiveFirst published April 18, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
Tragic Shooting at FSU
A shooting at Florida State University (FSU) on April 17 left two dead and six injured. The suspect, 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, is a student and the son of a Leon County Sheriff’s deputy. He was shot and detained by police and remains hospitalized. Authorities say he used his mother’s former service weapon, a handgun she had legally purchased.
Connection to Law Enforcement
Leon County Sheriff Walter McNeil said Ikner had “been steep in the Leon County Sheriff’s family,” actively participating in youth and training programs. His mother, Jessica Ikner, works as a school deputy. He was also carrying a shotgun, though it’s unclear if it was used.
Witnesses Recall Chaos
Student McKenzie Heeter described seeing Ikner fire near her, then shoot a woman in purple scrubs. “She was just walking. And he just turned around and shot her,” Heeter said, adding the gunfire continued for about 20 seconds.
Ongoing Investigation
FSU went into lockdown as emergency crews responded. Authorities are still investigating the motive. As Sheriff McNeil noted, “It’s not a surprise to us that he had access to weapons.”
More in US News
