A 20-year-old man, Phoenix Ikner, has been indicted on murder charges following a mass shooting at Florida State University (FSU) on April 17. The incident, which left two people dead and six others injured, has shocked the local community and prompted a thorough investigation by law enforcement agencies.
The indictment, which was handed down by a grand jury, includes two counts of first-degree murder and seven counts of attempted murder with a firearm. FSU police officer Cody Poppell, who was reportedly the first to respond to the shooting, confronted Ikner during the attack, resulting in several shots fired at him, one of which struck him in the face. This act of valor by Poppell has been highlighted in the indictment, underscoring the bravery of law enforcement in the face of such a tragic event.
Ikner, who had spent weeks in the hospital recovering from a jaw injury sustained during the shooting, made his first court appearance online shortly after his release. The court has determined that he is indigent and has appointed public defender Randall Harper to represent him. Ikner is currently being held without bond in the Wakulla County Detention Facility, a move that aligns with standard protocol given his stepmother’s status as a Leon County Sheriff’s deputy.
The victims of the attack, Robert Morales and Tiru Chabba, have been identified, with Chabba’s family releasing a statement through their attorney expressing hopes for closure through the ongoing investigation and prosecution. The Tallahassee Police Department has reaffirmed its commitment to justice, transparency, and community safety, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of detectives, officers, and partner agencies that have contributed to bringing the case to this point.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the community remains in shock and is awaiting further details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by institutions like FSU in ensuring the safety of students and staff, as well as the critical role of law enforcement in responding to such violent incidents.