Statement from President McCullough to FSU community (April 17)

Dear FSU community,

Today, we experienced a tragic and senseless act of violence at the heart of our campus.

At lunchtime, an active shooter opened fire at the Student Union. Two were killed. Six others were injured.

We are heartbroken. We are grieving with the families, friends, and loved ones of those who were lost. We are holding close those who are injured, and we are standing by everyone who is hurting.

I’ve been in constant contact with our law enforcement and emergency teams since the incident began. The FSU Police Department, along with the Tallahassee Police Department, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Florida Highway Patrol, responded immediately and decisively. FSU Police contained the threat and prevented even greater tragedy. I am grateful for their courage and professionalism.

Right now, our focus is on taking care of people. That means the victims and their families. It means students, faculty, and staff who were nearby and are now trying to make sense of what they experienced. And it means every person in our campus community who is feeling shaken or overwhelmed.

We are working closely with our leadership, law enforcement, and mental health professionals to ensure that everyone has the support they need. If you’re struggling, please reach out to our Counseling & Psychological Services team at (850) 644-TALK (8255). You are not alone.

There will be more updates in the days ahead, and more time to reflect and heal. But now, we mourn together. We lean on one another. And we remember who we are.

We are Florida State. We are family. And we stand together.

Sincerely,

Richard McCullough
President

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