FSU Campus Shooting April 2025: What We Know So Far
In a tragic and chilling attack that has shaken the state of Florida and the nation, an active shooter opened fire on the campus of Florida State University (FSU) on Sunday, April 17, 2025, leaving three people dead and at least five others injured. The FSU campus shooting April 2025 is one of the most deadly incidents in the university’s recent history, and authorities are now piecing together what led to this senseless violence.
Police responded to multiple 911 calls around 8:30 a.m. reporting gunfire near the university’s Strozier Library, a central hub often packed with students. Within minutes, law enforcement and campus security were on the scene, and the gunman was fatally shot by responding officers shortly thereafter, ending the immediate threat.
Timeline of Events: How the Tragedy Unfolded
According to CNN and NBC News live coverage, here’s what we know about the timeline:
- 8:30 a.m.: First reports of shots fired near the library and student union.
- 8:38 a.m.: FSU issues emergency alert urging students to “Run. Hide. Fight.”
- 8:42 a.m.: Tallahassee police confirm “active shooter situation.”
- 8:47 a.m.: Shooter neutralized by campus police near the Westcott Building.
- 9:30 a.m.: All campus buildings placed on lockdown.
- 11:15 a.m.: FSU confirms three fatalities, multiple injuries, including two critical.
Among those injured are both students and staff. One of the critically injured remains in intensive care at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital, according to hospital officials.
Who Was Behind the FSU Shooting?
Law enforcement has identified the shooter as 23-year-old Matthew Drake, a former FSU student who had reportedly withdrawn from the university in 2023. Investigators are currently analyzing his digital footprint and mental health records to understand his motive.
According to a statement from Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell:
“We believe this attack was premeditated, though we are still trying to determine whether specific individuals were targeted.”
Campus on Lockdown, Classes and Athletics Suspended
The entire FSU campus remains closed through at least Monday, and university officials have canceled all classes, events, and athletic competitions through the week. According to ESPN, all Florida State athletic events, including spring football practice, have been postponed out of respect for the victims and to prioritize student safety.
In a university-wide email, FSU President Richard McCullough said:
“Our community is grieving. We are heartbroken. We are shaken. And we stand united in ensuring FSU remains a place of safety, learning, and healing.”
Grief counselors, mental health resources, and a candlelight vigil are being organized for students and faculty.
Nation Reacts: Shock, Grief, and Renewed Calls for Gun Reform
As news of the FSU campus shooting April 2025 spread, tributes and condolences poured in from public figures, fellow universities, and political leaders. President Joe Biden released a statement calling the shooting “another horrifying reminder of the gun violence epidemic plaguing America.”
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expressed condolences but stopped short of discussing gun control measures, instead focusing on mental health support and school security funding.
Students from across the country took to social media with hashtags like #FSUStrong, #EnoughIsEnough, and #PrayForFSU, reigniting a fierce debate over campus safety and America’s ongoing mass shooting crisis.
What We Know About the Victims
Authorities have not publicly released the names of the victims, pending family notifications. However, FSU confirmed that one faculty member and two students were among the deceased. Several of the injured are in stable condition, but one remains in critical care.
The university has established a dedicated hotline for affected families and a GoFundMe page is being set up to assist victims with medical and funeral expenses.
Is Gun Violence Becoming the New Normal on Campuses?
Sadly, FSU joins a growing list of American universities that have faced gun violence in the last decade. From Virginia Tech to Michigan State, and now Florida State, students are grappling with a harsh reality: no campus is immune.
A 2024 study by the National Education Association found that school shootings in the U.S. have increased 35% over the past five years, many of them on or near college campuses.
How FSU Is Responding: Safety Measures and Mental Health Support
In the aftermath of the attack, FSU has announced the following immediate actions:
- Increased armed security across campus entrances
- Mandatory emergency response training for faculty and students
- Expanded mental health services, including drop-in crisis counseling
- A task force to review campus safety protocols
Students are encouraged to download the FSU Safe app and update their emergency contacts immediately.
FAQs: FSU Campus Shooting April 2025
How many people were killed or injured in the FSU shooting?
Three people were killed, and at least five others were injured—two critically.
Who was the shooter?
Matthew Drake, a 23-year-old former FSU student, was identified as the shooter. He was killed by campus police.
Is the campus still under lockdown?
Yes, FSU remains closed until further notice. Classes, athletics, and events have been suspended for the week.
Has a motive been determined?
Authorities believe the attack was premeditated, but the motive is still under investigation.
What mental health support is FSU offering students?
Grief counselors, 24/7 crisis hotlines, and mental wellness resources are available both on campus and remotely.
A Dark Day for FSU—and a Wake-Up Call for America
The FSU campus shooting April 2025 has left an indelible scar on the university community and once again sparked national outrage over the ongoing gun violence crisis. As students, families, and faculty grieve, one truth is undeniable: campus shootings are no longer rare—they’re routine.
The call for reform is louder than ever. But will America listen?
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