FSU set to reopen Student Union after deadly mass shooting

Florida State University (FSU) is preparing to reopen its Student Union on Monday afternoon, more than a week after a deadly mass shooting sent shockwaves through the campus.

The Student Union, considered the heart of the FSU campus, has been closed since April 17, when a gunman opened fire, causing widespread panic and forcing people to flee the building. University officials confirmed that two individuals lost their lives during the attack, and six others were injured. The gunman, identified as 20-year-old student Phoenix Ikner, is currently in custody at the hospital after being apprehended at the scene. Ikner is the stepson of a local sheriff's deputy.

FSU President Richard McCullough said many seniors have asked for the union to reopen for their last week on campus before graduation.

"We understand the importance of the Student Union as a hub for connection, support, learning, and growth. It is crucial that we continue to offer students the services, opportunities, and communal space that foster their development and well-being. We want to provide the maximum number of choices for our community to decide when they want to be in the Student Union," he said in a statement.

"The opening will be conducted with the utmost respect and care for those affected. No employees or volunteers will be required to be present or will be required to return to the Student Union until they are ready."

The tragic events unfolded Thursday morning when Phoenix Ikner opened fire inside the Student Union, killing university dining coordinator Robert Morales and Aramark food service vendor employee Tiru Chabba. The shooting left six others wounded and sent the campus into lockdown as authorities responded to the situation.

Classes at FSU resumed last week, and the university has been providing counseling and support to students and staff affected by the trauma.

"As we prepare to resume classes and business operations, we understand that some of you may not be ready to return. We will be flexible. If you need time, or support, please reach out to one of the many services we have available. We are here to help," said McCullough last week.

Statement released following funeral for Tiru Chabba

On April 25, attorneys for the family of Tiru Chabba, one of the victims in the deadly FSU shooting, released a heartfelt statement after his funeral in Greenville, South Carolina.

Chabba, 45, was a father of two young children and was employed by Aramark Collegiate Hospitality when the shooting took place. He was remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father, and a cherished friend whose life was tragically cut short. Chabba's family, represented by civil rights attorney Bakari Sellers and Jim Bannister, expressed their deep grief and asked for privacy as they process their loss.

"There are so many questions surrounding this tragic event. For now, his family is heartbroken and deeply grieving this unimaginable loss and they ask that for this moment they be allowed the privacy and space to mourn and process their loss in peace," the statement read.

"The family is grateful for the outpouring of support they’ve received from their community including Tiru’s friends and colleagues from Aramark, whose kindness and presence have meant so much to the family during this difficult time. We ask that compassion and respect continue to guide all coverage and conversations moving forward."