President Donald Trump has reacted to the deadly shooting at Florida State University (FSU), calling it a “terrible” and “shameful” tragedy. However, he made it clear that he does not plan to support new gun control laws, saying he remains a firm advocate of the Second Amendment.
The shooting, which occurred on the FSU campus in Tallahassee, left two people dead and six others injured. The alleged shooter, 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, was captured by police after being shot during the incident.
Trump Says “Guns Don’t Kill, People Do”
Speaking to reporters, President Trump said:
“These things are terrible. But the gun doesn’t do the shooting, the people do.”
He added that while the incident was tragic, he has a duty to protect the Second Amendment:
“I ran on the Second Amendment, among many other things, and I will always protect the Second Amendment.”
Trump, whose primary residence is in Palm Beach, Florida, also mentioned he knows Florida State University and the area very well.
Details of the Campus Shooting
According to law enforcement officials, the shooting took place on the university campus and resulted in two deaths and six injuries. The suspect, Phoenix Ikner, is now in custody.
Police recovered a weapon and say that the shooting appeared to be planned. A full investigation is underway to determine the motive.
No New Gun Control Plans
President Trump has long opposed most gun control measures. In February 2025, he signed an executive order directing Attorney General Pam Bondi to review and possibly roll back gun restrictions introduced during previous administrations, including tighter rules for firearms dealers.
Although Trump did ban bump stocks during his first term after the Las Vegas mass shooting, the Supreme Court overturned the ban last year, calling it unconstitutional.
Changes in Gun Law Leadership
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) currently has no permanent director. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is serving as the acting leader, following the departure of FBI Director Kash Patel, who had been overseeing both agencies temporarily.