TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Tragedy struck Florida State University when an armed assailant unleashed a barrage of gunfire near the student union, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to six others. The incident, which plunged the campus into a state of alarm and prompted a swift lockdown, occurred around noon on Thursday.
The assailant was identified as Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old student from the university. According to law enforcement, Ikner, who is the stepson of a local sheriff’s deputy, used a service weapon previously assigned to his stepmother. The confrontation ended when Ikner was shot by police after failing to obey their commands during the incident.
As investigators continue to piece together the sequence of events, the motive behind this violent act remains unclear. The identities of the two deceased victims have been partially released to the public. One was identified by a family member as Robert Morales, a university employee, while the second victim, named Tiru Chabba, was a food service vendor executive, as confirmed by his family’s attorneys.
Robert Morales, remembered as dedicated and creative, had been an integral part of the Florida State dining services as a coordinator since 2015. Ricardo Morales Jr., Robert’s brother, expressed his sorrow on social media, emphasizing his brother’s passion for his family and his work. In addition to his contributions to the university, Morales was known for his vibrant Cuban culinary creations and once coached football at Leon High School.
During a vigil held Friday afternoon, Kyle Clark, a senior vice president at the university, praised Morales for his exceptional commitment to his role and the school community. He described Morales not just as an employee, but as someone who genuinely embodied his role every day.
Meanwhile, Tiru Chabba, the other victim, was a regional vice president for Aramark Collegiate Hospitality. Chabba, who resided in Greenville, South Carolina, and had been with the company for over two decades, was also a devoted father and husband. The impact of his loss was deeply felt among his peers and family, highlighted during a heartfelt statement from his family’s attorney, who pointed out the tragic disruption of family plans and celebrations due to this unexpected violence.
The FSU community is mourning the loss of both Morales and Chabba, reflecting on the profound impact they had on campus life and beyond. The university has initiated counseling and support services for students and staff affected by the tragedy as they navigate through this difficult time.
This incident adds to the unsettling trends of campus-related shootings, prompting discussions about security measures and gun control on university campuses across the nation. The broader implications of such incidents underscore ongoing debates about safety, mental health, and legislation in educational settings.
The lives and careers of Morales and Chabba paint a picture of dedication and service, overshadowed tragically by an episode of senseless violence that has left the Florida State community and their families searching for answers and solace amidst their grief.