FSU Shooting Survivors and Witnesses Reflect on Terror, Trauma, and Healing
Survivors and witnesses of the Florida State University (FSU) Student Union shooting are speaking about the lasting emotional scars left behind after a deadly attack that killed two students and injured five others. The mass shooting, which occurred on April 17, 2025, sent shockwaves through the campus community and continues to shape the lives of those who experienced it firsthand.
Chaos Inside the Student Union
Witnesses describe a scene of sudden panic and confusion as gunfire erupted inside the busy Student Union. Students who had been studying, eating, and attending meetings were forced to flee for their lives within seconds.
One survivor, a 21-year-old speech therapy major from Miami, recalled sitting near the Starbucks in the Student Union shortly before the attack began. She described how normal campus life quickly turned into chaos as people began shouting warnings to run.
Moments later, she heard gunshots and immediately fled the building, leaving behind personal belongings in her rush to escape. She described running through side exits and across campus lawns, believing she was being pursued as she tried to reach safety.
“I thought I was going to get shot in the back for sure,” she said, reflecting on the fear she felt while running alone during the attack.
Lasting Psychological Impact
In the aftermath of the shooting, survivors say the emotional toll has been severe and long-lasting. Many continue to experience anxiety, flashbacks, and difficulty returning to normal campus routines.
Witnesses have also described the difficulty of processing what they saw and heard, especially as legal proceedings approach. Several individuals listed as witnesses in the upcoming trial have shared that they are still struggling with the trauma and prefer to keep parts of their identities private to avoid being permanently associated with the tragedy.
A Community Still Healing
The FSU community continues to mourn the victims while also supporting those who survived the attack. Counseling services and peer support groups remain active as students and staff work through grief, fear, and recovery.
While time has passed since the incident, survivors emphasize that healing is ongoing and not linear. The shooting has left an indelible mark on the university, reshaping conversations around campus safety and mental health support.
As the trial date approaches, many survivors say they are preparing to relive painful memories, but also hope that sharing their experiences will bring awareness to the long-term effects of campus violence.