FSU Shooting Suspect Is Deputy’s Stepson, Raises Questions/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ The accused gunman in a deadly Florida State University shooting is the stepson of a longtime sheriff’s deputy. Phoenix Ikner, a political science student with ties to law enforcement programs, opened fire on campus, killing two and injuring six before being taken into custody. The incident has raised questions about warning signs, access to firearms, and how such a tragedy unfolded within a law enforcement family.
FSU Shooter’s Identity Raises Troubling Questions – Quick Looks
- Suspect Phoenix Ikner is stepson of deputy Jessica Ikner
- Authorities say he used her former service weapon
- Gunman killed 2, wounded 6 at student union on campus
- No motive given; suspect invoked right to remain silent
- FSU to resume classes Monday amid ongoing investigation
- Gunman once praised in sheriff’s youth program, later radicalized
- Court records detail custody disputes and name change
- Former classmates say he espoused racist, extremist views
Deep Look: FSU Gunman Was Deputy’s Stepson With Law Enforcement Ties
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — As Florida State University begins the painful process of healing from a deadly campus shooting, investigators are now facing a disturbing and complex question: How did the stepson of a respected local sheriff’s deputy become the accused shooter?
Authorities say 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, a political science student with past involvement in youth law enforcement programs, used his stepmother’s former service weapon to open fire inside the student union. The rampage left two men dead and six others injured before Ikner was shot and arrested.
The attack has shocked a community where Ikner was once regarded as a promising student with ties to law enforcement through the Leon County Sheriff’s Office’s youth outreach. His stepmother, Deputy Jessica Ikner, has worked for the department for 18 years and was on duty at a nearby middle school when the alert went out.
Law Enforcement Legacy and Access to Weapons
Sheriff Walter McNeil confirmed that Phoenix Ikner had long been “steeped in the sheriff’s office family culture,” participating in advisory programs and training camps.
Jessica Ikner has since been granted personal leave, and school officials say she helped secure Raa Middle School during the university lockdown. No criminal record has been identified for Phoenix Ikner.
Florida law does not require training or a permit for concealed carry, and authorities acknowledged that access to firearms was not unexpected given Ikner’s family background.
A Troubled Personal History
Court records show Phoenix Ikner — born Christian Eriksen — had a tumultuous childhood involving multiple custody battles. His biological mother was convicted in 2015 of taking him to Norway in violation of court orders. Later that year, she filed a dismissed civil complaint against Jessica Ikner alleging harassment.
In 2020, at age 15, Ikner legally changed his name to “Phoenix,” citing the symbolic desire to “rise from the ashes.” A judge described him as “articulate” and “emotionally mature.”
Yet troubling behavior reportedly emerged in recent years.
Former Classmates Sound Alarms
Reid Seybold, a former classmate and current FSU student, said Ikner had previously been removed from a campus club for espousing racist and white supremacist views.
“He made people that uncomfortable,” Seybold said. “He complained about how multiculturalism and communism were ruining America.”
The shooting suspect was also known for controversial political commentary. In a now-deleted quote from a student newspaper, he referred to anti-Trump protests as “entertaining,” suggesting sympathy with far-right perspectives.
Before his social media accounts were taken down, Ikner’s Instagram bio featured a biblical quote from Jeremiah 51:20 — often interpreted as a call to arms.
Legal and Institutional Fallout
The suspect has not yet been charged, as prosecutors weigh their next steps. Ikner remains hospitalized and has declined to speak with investigators.
Meanwhile, FSU announced that classes and operations will resume Monday, acknowledging the emotional weight students and faculty still carry.
“This won’t feel like a normal week,” said FSU President Richard McCullough.
Authorities continue to search for a motive, combing through digital footprints and eyewitness testimony. Investigators have not tied the suspect to any known extremist groups, but they are examining the possibility of ideological motivation.
Law Enforcement Community Reeling
The Leon County Sheriff’s Office has not issued a statement beyond confirming Deputy Ikner’s leave and assisting with school lockdowns. Reporters were blocked from approaching the family home, and phone messages to the deputy went unanswered.
Years ago, Jessica Ikner wrote in a parenting column about the importance of trust and communication with children. “Let them know that if they do make a mistake,” she wrote, “they can still come to you about anything.”
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