In a heartbreaking turn of events, Florida State University (FSU) student Robbie Alhadeff survived a campus shooting on April 17, 2025, an experience that tragically mirrored a past trauma. Robbie is no stranger to gun violence. His sister, Alyssa Alhadeff, was one of the 17 victims killed in the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Now, after facing a second school shooting in his lifetime, Robbie is speaking out once again, demanding that “something has to change.”
A Tragic Echo from the Past
The recent shooting at FSU left two students dead and six others injured. The attack occurred near the student union, shocking the entire campus community and beyond. For Robbie, the gunshots weren’t just frightening—they were haunting reminders of the loss his family endured years ago. In an emotional interview, Robbie expressed his frustration and heartbreak, saying, “This should never have happened again—not to me, not to anyone.”
The shooter, 20-year-old FSU student Phoenix Ikner, was apprehended shortly after the incident. Authorities confirmed he is the son of a local sheriff’s deputy and allegedly used firearms taken from his mother. Investigators are still trying to determine a clear motive, but the impact of the violence has already shaken the FSU community.
A Campus in Mourning
Florida State University quickly moved to support its students and staff. Classes were canceled for the remainder of the week, and grief counselors were made available to those affected by the traumatic event. Vigils were held on campus, where students gathered with candles and prayers to honor the lives lost and the pain left behind.
University officials released a statement expressing sorrow over the violence and a commitment to evaluating campus safety procedures. “We mourn the loss of members of our FSU family,” the statement read, “and we stand together as a community.”
A Familiar Plea for Change
For Robbie, the tragedy has ignited a renewed push for national reform. He has long been involved in school safety advocacy following his sister’s death and is now calling once again for stricter gun laws, more mental health resources, and better campus security. “No student should go through this twice,” he said, urging lawmakers to take real action this time.
Gun safety advocates across the country have echoed his call, pointing to this incident as yet another reminder of the urgent need for reform. Many believe that stories like Robbie’s—stories of survivors reliving trauma—should be the final wake-up call for the nation.
Looking Forward
As the investigation continues, the FSU community is left trying to heal while navigating feelings of fear and vulnerability. For students like Robbie, the focus remains on turning pain into purpose. He hopes to keep his sister’s memory alive by fighting for meaningful changes that protect others from similar tragedies.
The story of Robbie Alhadeff is a powerful reminder of the long-lasting impact of gun violence and the pressing need for a safer future—for schools, campuses, and communities everywhere.
FAQs
Q1: What happened at Florida State University on April 17, 2025?
A shooting near the student union resulted in two fatalities and six injuries. A suspect was arrested on-site.
Q2: Who is Robbie Alhadeff?
He is an FSU student and the brother of Alyssa Alhadeff, a victim of the 2018 Parkland school shooting. He survived the FSU campus shooting.
Q3: Who was the shooter in the FSU incident?
Phoenix Ikner, a 20-year-old student and the son of a sheriff’s deputy, was arrested. He allegedly used firearms taken from his mother.
Q4: What is being done in response to the FSU shooting?
Classes were canceled, support services were offered, and discussions around gun control have been reignited nationwide.
Q5: What has Robbie Alhadeff said about the shooting?
He expressed deep frustration, saying “something has to change,” and has renewed his advocacy for stronger gun laws and safer campuses.
External Links
- ABC News: FSU Student Survives Shooting After Losing Sister in Parkland
- People: Parkland Victim’s Family Reacts to FSU Shooting