Florida State University’s Plan for Concluding School Year After Tragic Shooting

The end of the academic year at Florida State University (FSU) will be markedly different following the recent tragic incident. Two individuals lost their lives, and six others sustained injuries in a mass shooting on the campus.

In a video shared on X, FSU President Richard McCullough announced, “Classes and campus activities will recommence on Monday, April 21. I acknowledge that this upcoming week will not be ordinary, given that it is the final week before exams, and many of you are still coming to terms with the recent events.”

McCullough further expressed the administration’s recognition that some students may not feel prepared to come back to the university premises. He assured students that flexibility will be provided to support them during this challenging time.

Beginning Monday, the university will be offering a “remote option” for many courses, a subsequent post by McCullough read. There are some classes, however, that remote will not work for, such as labs. 

A Leon County Sheriff’s Office vehicle is seen at Florida State University following the shooting on Thursday in Tallahassee. (Pilar Arias)

Those who feel like they cannot complete a course “will have the option to request an incomplete grade.”

McCullough provided phone numbers to resources such as counseling and psychological services, a victim advocate program, and an employee assistance program. 

The campus of Florida State University on Friday, April 18, 2025. (Pilar Arias)

The latest statement from Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, the hospital that treated six victims, said one patient went home on Friday and “five are still with us, all in good condition.”

The alleged shooter, 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, was hospitalized with injuries that are not considered life-threatening, police say. He is a student at the university and the stepson of a sheriff’s deputy.

“We will get through this by leaning on each other. FSU is strong because of its people – and I believe in this community with all my heart,” McCullough wrote. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report.