Active shooter reported at Florida State University; multiple hospitalized

The reported shooter was located in the area of Student Union, according to university police.

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Active shooter reported at Florida State University; multiple hospitalized

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WFLA) – An active shooter was reported at Florida State University on Thursday. The reported shooter was located in the area of the Student Union, according to university police.

Police said they had responded to the scene as of 12:20 p.m. ET. As of 12:39 p.m., those in the area were being told to "continue to shelter in place."

People on the campus and in the immediate area were also being told to lock and stay away from all windows and doors, according to an alert issued by FSU on X.

Law enforcement was also "actively clearing rooms on the main campus" as of 1:04 p.m., according to the FSU emergency alert system.

"Persons in need of immediate emergency assistance should call 9-1-1 or FSUPD at 850-644-1234," the alert said.

A representative for the FBI also confirmed to Nexstar that agents had responded to the university to assist with the investigation.

Florida State University students wait for news amid an active shooter incident at the school’s campus in Tallahassee, Fla., Thursday, April 17, 2025 (AP Photo/Kate Payne)

The nearby Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare hospital released a statement after reports of the shooting, confirming that its facility is treating patients.

“TMH is actively receiving and caring for patients related to an incident that has occurred at Florida State University. At this time, details are still unfolding, and we do not yet have specific information to share. However, we want to assure the community that our teams are fully mobilized and prepared to provide the highest level of care and support to all those affected.

"We remain in close coordination with emergency responders and public safety officials. Out of respect for patient privacy and to ensure accurate information, we will provide updates as soon as they are available. We ask for your patience and compassion during this difficult time.”

Florida State University students wait for news amid an active shooter incident at the school’s campus in Tallahassee, Fla., Thursday, April 17, 2025 (AP Photo/Kate Payne)

Ambulances, fire trucks and patrol vehicles from multiple law enforcement agencies raced toward the campus that sits just west of Florida's state capital after the university issued an active shooter alert midday Thursday, saying police were responding near the student union.

“Our prayers are with our FSU family and state law enforcement is actively responding,” Gov. Ron DeSantis wrote on X.

Hundreds of students streamed away from the direction of the student union. Students were glued to their phones, some visibly emotional, while others hugged each other. Dozens gathered near the music school waiting for news.

People comfort each other on Florida State University’s campus in Tallahassee, where law enforcement responded to a reported active shooter incident Thursday, April 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Kate Payne)

Ryan Cedergren, a 21-year-old communications student, said he and about 30 others hid in the bowling alley in the lower level of the student union after seeing students running from a nearby bar.

“In that moment, it was survival,” he said.

This is a developing story. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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