AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 26, 2026
Shooting Near Florida A&M University Leaves 12 Injured
A 15-year-old has been taken into custody in connection with a shooting near Florida A&M University (FAMU) that resulted in 12 people being injured. The incident unfolded on Saturday evening during the university's homecoming weekend, drawing significant concern from the Tallahassee community and public officials.
Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred around 8 p.m. on Saturday, not far from FAMU’s football stadium. According to Tallahassee police, the violent episode began with a dispute between individuals known to each other. A fight broke out, which quickly escalated when shots were fired. Authorities emphasized that none of the victims seemed to be the intended targets of the shooting.
Shooting Victims and Injuries
Out of the 12 victims, 11 sustained gunshot wounds, while one person was injured in the ankle while fleeing the scene. At least three people suffered serious injuries, and six of those injured are juveniles. By the following morning, five victims had been released from hospital care, but six remained hospitalized. One patient was reported to be in critical condition.
Police Response and Investigation
Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell addressed the public in a news conference after the shooting, expressing sympathy for the victims and their families. Chief Revell acknowledged the community's anxieties about the incident, stating, "I want to say first and foremost that my heart goes out to our victims and their families. We understand the concern that this type of event causes for a community." He further stated that the department is working diligently to answer the many unanswered questions surrounding the case and cautioned against speculation.
Officers at the scene helped transport injured civilians, as large crowds made access difficult for emergency responders. Detectives arrested 15-year-old Anthony Rivers III on Sunday. He faces 11 counts of attempted second-degree murder and a charge for possession of a firearm by a delinquent. The investigation remains active, and the Tallahassee Police Department is urging witnesses or anyone with information, photos, or videos related to the incident to come forward via a dedicated tip line or the department’s online portal.
Community and University Statements
Florida A&M University confirmed through social media that the shooting occurred near campus but reassured the community that the campus itself remained secure. The university expressed support for those affected, stating, “Our hearts are with the victims, and everyone affected by tonight’s incident on Perry Street.”
The shooting prompted responses from both candidates in the Florida Governor’s race. Democratic candidate David Jolly commented, “Our hearts are heavy with the news of last night’s shooting in Tallahassee.” Republican candidate Byron Donalds said, “I am devastated by this senseless violence at FAMU on homecoming weekend.”
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety
The Tallahassee police continue their investigation into the homecoming shooting. The department has requested that anyone with relevant information call 850-891-4610 or upload digital evidence through their specified online portal. The incident has heightened discussions around gun violence, juvenile shootings, and public safety in the Tallahassee area, especially during large community events such as university homecomings.
Source: clickorlando.com.
