Florida — The suspect in Thursday’s mass shooting at Florida State University, identified as 20-year-old student Phoenix Ikner, is the son of a longtime Leon County sheriff’s deputy and had previously participated in youth law enforcement programs. Authorities say he used a handgun once issued to his mother, Deputy Jessica Ikner, in the attack, which left two dead and five injured.
Phoenix Ikner, a junior political science major who transferred to FSU this semester, was shot and taken into custody after failing to comply with police commands. He is hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries and has invoked his right to remain silent.
Records show Ikner had a turbulent childhood and changed his name from Christian Eriksen following a custody dispute that led to international legal action. He was removed from a political club at FSU due to reportedly extreme views and unsettling behavior. The motive for the shooting remains unknown.
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