Four hospitalized following shooting at Florida State University; students urged to shelter in place.

A shooting incident on the campus of Florida State University (FSU) on Wednesday evening left four individuals hospitalized and prompted university officials to issue a shelter-in-place order for students, faculty, and staff. The incident has shaken the FSU community and raised renewed concerns about campus safety.

According to Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) officials, the shooting occurred near the university’s Strozier Library around 7:45 p.m. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, followed by scenes of panic as students fled the area or took cover inside campus buildings.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene within minutes. Four individuals, all reportedly students, sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to a nearby hospital. Authorities have confirmed that at least one of the victims is in critical condition, while the others are stable.

FSU issued an emergency alert just after the first reports of gunfire, warning students and staff to “shelter in place immediately” and to “avoid the area near Strozier Library.” The alert system, designed to notify the university community of emergencies, was triggered through text messages, email notifications, and loudspeaker announcements across campus.

By 9:30 p.m., law enforcement officials had secured the area and lifted the shelter-in-place order, although a heavy police presence remains on campus. Investigators continue to search for the suspect or suspects involved. As of Thursday morning, no arrests had been made, and authorities have not released information on a potential motive.

In a late-night press conference, TPD Chief Carla Montgomery addressed the situation. “This is an active investigation, and we are doing everything in our power to identify and apprehend those responsible. We urge anyone with information or video footage to come forward.”

University President Richard McCullough released a statement expressing deep concern and offering support to the affected students and their families. “Our hearts go out to those injured in tonight’s tragic incident,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our campus and supporting our students through this difficult time.”

Counseling services have been made available to students, and university officials have confirmed that classes on Thursday will be canceled. “We understand that this has been a traumatic experience for many,” said FSU spokesperson Lisa Dorman. “We encourage all students who need support to reach out to campus resources.”

Students on campus described a tense and frightening experience. “I was studying in the library when I heard the shots,” said junior Emily Tran. “Everyone just dropped to the floor. People were crying, calling loved ones. It was terrifying.”

Others praised the quick response by campus security and law enforcement. “We heard the sirens almost immediately,” said sophomore Marcus Lewis. “They got there fast and helped get people out safely.”

While the investigation is ongoing, the incident has reignited debate over gun control laws and campus safety measures. Local officials and student leaders are calling for greater protections and more robust safety protocols.

“I love my school, but something has to change,” said FSU senior and student government member Rachel Moreno. “No one should have to fear for their life while trying to get an education.”

Governor Ron DeSantis has been briefed on the incident and issued a brief statement late Wednesday night, saying, “Our thoughts are with the victims and the entire FSU community. We will work closely with law enforcement to ensure justice is served.”

As the investigation unfolds, the university is urging students and staff to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to campus police. Updates will continue to be provided as more details become available.

Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact the Tallahassee Police Department at (850) 891-4200 or submit tips anonymously through the TPD website.