TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Twelve people were injured in a shooting near Florida A&M University’s Bragg Memorial Stadium on Saturday night, October 24, as the HBCU community celebrated Homecoming weekend.
According to the Tallahassee Police Department, 11 of the 12 victims suffered gunshot wounds. Six victims were adults and six were minors, with the youngest reported to be 11 years old.
The shooting occurred shortly before 8 p.m. near the intersection of Perry and Manatee streets, just outside the FAMU campus, hours after the Rattlers hosted the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff for their Homecoming football game.
Six Victims Hospitalized as Investigation Continues
Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell said at least three victims initially sustained serious injuries, including one person who was reported in critical condition. The remaining victims were initially reported to be in stable condition.
In a Sunday morning update, police said five victims had been released from the hospital, while six remained hospitalized. One of those six was in critical condition.
The twelfth victim was injured while attempting to flee the scene, according to police.
Authorities said preliminary findings indicate that a physical altercation between individuals preceded the shooting. Investigators are working to determine exactly what happened and identify those responsible.
As of Sunday, October 25, police had not announced any arrests.
Shooting Followed FAMU Homecoming Football Game
The violence unfolded during one of the busiest weekends on Florida A&M’s campus, following the university’s Homecoming football game against Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
However, authorities have not confirmed that the shooting was directly connected to the football game or the university’s official Homecoming activities.
Florida A&M acknowledged the incident and expressed concern for those affected. The university also indicated that the shooting occurred near campus and said the campus remained safe, while encouraging people to avoid the area as law enforcement continued its investigation.
The incident has cast a shadow over a weekend intended to bring FAMU students, alumni, supporters and the broader HBCU community together.
Police Ask Witnesses to Come Forward
The Tallahassee Police Department’s Violent Crimes Unit is investigating the shooting. Officials are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information, photographs or video footage to contact investigators.
Police have emphasized that information from witnesses could help establish what led to the shooting and identify those responsible.
Anyone with information can contact the Tallahassee Police Department at 850-891-4200. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Solvers at 850-574-TIPS.
This remains a developing story. Sneaker Shop Talk will update this report as authorities release additional information.
