A photo of the 2023 Lewiston, Maine, mass shooter is being falsely shared across social media as that of the FSU shooting suspect — despite the fact that authorities have not yet publicly released the Florida suspect’s identity.
The 2023 Miane shooting suspect
The 2023 Miane shooting suspect

Misinformation Spreads Amid Breaking News

In the immediate aftermath of the FSU campus shooting, a photo from last year's Maine mass shooting began circulating widely on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Reddit, incorrectly identifying the man as the FSU shooter.

However, police in Tallahassee have not confirmed the identity of the person in custody. The Tallahassee Police Department and university officials emphasized that investigations are ongoing and urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified images or information.

Read more: Who Is Phoenix Ikner? Everything We Know About the Florida State University Shooting Suspect

Shooting Details: FSU Locked Down, Suspect in Custody

The incident occurred near the FSU Student Union on Thursday afternoon, prompting a university-wide lockdown. FSU issued a shelter-in-place alert around noon after reports of an active shooter on campus. Law enforcement quickly responded and secured the scene.

According to the Associated Press, a suspect was apprehended shortly after the shooting. The FBI, state law enforcement, and campus police are working together on the investigation.

At least six individuals were rushed to Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, with one person currently in critical condition. Officials have not yet released the names of the victims.

University, Government, and National Response

FSU Mass Shooting: Viral Photo of 2023 Maine Shooter Falsely Linked to Florida Suspect
The suspect, identified as Phoenix Ikner, was also a member of the Leon County Sheriff’s Office’s Youth Advisory Council

Florida State University has canceled all classes and events scheduled for Thursday and urged students, faculty, and staff to avoid the main campus while authorities continue their work.

In a statement posted on X, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said, “Our prayers are with our FSU family and state law enforcement is actively responding.”

U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters, acknowledged the tragedy: “I have been briefed on the Florida State University active shooter. It’s a shame. Horrible that things like this take place, and we’ll have more to say about it later.”

The FBI confirmed its involvement and reported that federal agents are coordinating with local and state officials already present on campus.

Authorities Urge Caution as Investigation Unfolds

Law enforcement officials are urging the public to wait for verified updates before sharing photos, names, or theories online. "Spreading false images only fuels confusion and can hinder an active investigation," said an FBI spokesperson at the scene.

At this stage, no motive has been officially released, and police have not confirmed if the shooting was targeted or random. Investigators are reviewing campus surveillance footage, witness statements, and digital evidence.

FSU Mass Shooting: Viral Photo of 2023 Maine Shooter Falsely Linked to Florida Suspect
This is NOT a picture of the FSU active shooter

Conclusion: Community on Edge, Investigation Ongoing

With at least five lives lost and several others injured, the FSU community is left shaken and mourning. The university is providing crisis counseling services and plans to hold a vigil once campus is secure.

As the investigation develops, authorities continue to emphasize the importance of responsible information-sharing — and to verify facts before they go viral.

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