Robert Morales Obituary, Death – A tragic mass shooting occurred on Thursday at Florida State University’s (FSU) Student Union, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and leaving six others injured. The incident has deeply shaken the campus community and sparked an outpouring of grief as more details continue to emerge about the victims and those impacted.
Authorities identified the suspect in the shooting as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, a current student at FSU. Ikner reportedly engaged in a gunfight with law enforcement officers who responded swiftly to the active shooter situation. He was injured during the exchange and remains hospitalized. The motive behind the shooting has not yet been disclosed, and the investigation is ongoing.
The attack unfolded just before midday, turning an ordinary Thursday into a nightmare for students, staff, and visitors at the bustling student center. Emergency personnel rushed to the scene, securing the area and tending to the wounded. Law enforcement agencies, including local police and university security, quickly launched a coordinated response to contain the situation and protect others on campus.
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare (TMH), where the wounded were transported, reported on Friday morning that of the six survivors, two are expected to be released from the hospital soon. Three are currently in good condition, while one remains in fair condition. TMH plans to hold a press briefing on Friday at 1 p.m. local time to provide further updates regarding the health of the injured victims.
While officials have not officially released the names of those involved, family members have come forward to confirm the identity of one of the deceased. Robert Morales, aged 57, was among those who lost their lives during the attack. A longtime staff member in FSU’s dining services department, Morales was remembered by loved ones as a dedicated employee and a beloved husband and father.
His brother, Ricardo Morales Jr., confirmed the tragic news via a heartfelt message on social media Thursday night. “Today we lost my younger brother,” he wrote. “He was one of the victims killed at FSU. He loved his job at FSU and his beautiful wife and daughter. I’m glad you were in my life.”
Ricardo also spoke to CBS News Miami to confirm his brother’s passing. According to the Miami Herald, Robert Morales had been attending a work meeting with other university employees when the gunfire erupted. His unexpected death has left both his family and the campus community reeling.
In addition to his professional ties to FSU, Morales came from a family with a notable history. His father, Ricardo “Monkey” Morales, was a former CIA operative and a well-known anti-Castro militant during the Cold War era. The elder Morales had a controversial legacy and died in a violent altercation at a Miami bar in 1982.
Despite Robert Morales’ distinguished and complex family background, those who knew him remember him for his warmth, dedication, and love for his job and family. As a familiar face in FSU’s dining services, Morales was part of the daily rhythm of university life, often interacting with students and staff in a space that now serves as a backdrop for grief.
While the university has not yet released an official list of victims, the community has already begun to honor the lives affected. Throughout the FSU campus, makeshift memorials have appeared, with students, faculty, and residents leaving candles, flowers, and notes in tribute to the victims.
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Friday evening at 5 p.m. on Langford Green, a central spot on campus that often serves as a place of reflection and gathering. University leaders, students, and community members are expected to attend, coming together to mourn, support one another, and stand in solidarity against violence.
University officials have pledged to provide counseling and support services to anyone impacted by the shooting. FSU President Richard McCullough issued a statement recognizing the pain and shock the campus is experiencing and commended the swift response from law enforcement that may have prevented further casualties.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about the shooter’s motivations and the circumstances that led to the violence. Authorities are also examining how the suspect obtained the weapon used in the attack. In the meantime, the priority remains the recovery of the wounded and the emotional healing of a community stunned by senseless violence.
The FSU shooting has reignited discussions about campus safety, gun violence, and the need for mental health resources. For now, the focus is on honoring the victims, including Robert Morales, and offering support to those left grieving.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, Florida State University is trying to reclaim its sense of peace and purpose. With community vigils, heartfelt tributes, and shared sorrow, the campus is beginning the long process of healing while remembering those whose lives were taken far too soon.