Eleven people were struck by gunfire late Saturday night near Florida A&M University’s stadium in Tallahassee, authorities said, in a blast of violence that rattled the campus community hours after the Rattlers’ homecoming game.
Scene erupted after homecoming game
Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell told reporters the shooting occurred in the vicinity of Bragg Memorial Stadium shortly after the Arkansas–Pine Bluff Golden Lions defeated the Florida A&M Rattlers, 31-28. It was not immediately clear whether the violence was tied to the football game.
Police said 11 people suffered gunshot wounds. Among them were six juveniles, including an 11-year-old, Revell said. No deaths were reported Sunday morning.
Hospital status and injuries
By Sunday morning, Tallahassee police reported that five victims had been released from the hospital and six remained admitted. Of those still receiving care, one patient was listed in critical condition.
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total people shot | 11 |
| Juvenile victims | 6 (includes an 11-year-old) |
| Released from hospital | 5 |
| Still hospitalized | 6 (1 critical) |
Investigation and community appeal
Chief Revell said investigators believe the shooting stemmed from an altercation involving two to three people. The department’s Violent Crimes Unit has taken the lead on the probe, and detectives have been reviewing video evidence and canvassing the area for witnesses.
Police established a tip hotline and an online portal for people to upload evidence related to the incident. Officials urged the public to come forward with any information — no detail is too small, they said — stressing that digital footage and eyewitness accounts could prove critical.
"We need our community's help. No detail is too small, and no piece of information should go unreported," police said in a statement. "If you know something, please share it with our detectives. Your information could be the key to holding those responsible accountable."
Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey called the episode a "truly horrific and heartbreaking tragedy." On social media, he added:
"Tonight and in the days ahead, the FAMU family is not alone. Our entire community stands with you."
Broader context
The shooting marks another episode in a year the Gun Violence Archive has tallied as unusually deadly: the group says there have been at least 383 mass shootings nationwide so far this year, using its definition of a mass shooting as an event in which four or more people are shot, not including the shooter.
Within Tallahassee, the attack has deep implications for families and the university community, coming on a weekend meant to celebrate alumni and students. A grandmother of one victim was injured as she fled the scene, police said, illustrating how violence rippled beyond those directly targeted.
What officials say residents can do
- Contact law enforcement with tips — Tallahassee police have set up a dedicated hotline for information related to the case.
- Submit digital evidence through the department’s designated online portal.
- Preserve any video or photos taken at or near the stadium and avoid posting material that could interfere with the investigation.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active. Detectives are piecing together timelines and reviewing electronic evidence collected from the scene and surrounding area. No arrests were announced Sunday.
For the families of the injured and for residents near campus, the shooting has revived familiar questions about safety at large events and the presence of youth in public spaces after dark. Officials said they are committed to providing answers to those families and to bringing those responsible to account.
As the probe continues, investigators asked anyone with information to contact the Tallahassee Police Department and to use the resources the department has made available to submit tips and evidence.
Reporting from Tallahassee. — Carla Nash
