Background on the FSU Shooting Incident

The tragic shooting at Florida State University on April 17 left the community in shock. Alleged shooter Phoenix Ikner, 20, reportedly harbored radical political beliefs, with sources indicating that he identified as a white supremacist. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as gunfire erupted on campus, leading to the deaths of two individuals and injuring several others.

Phoenix's grandmother, Susan Eriksen, spoke out against his father and stepmother, labeling them "rotten bastard people." She claimed they contributed to his negative mindset and influenced his extreme beliefs. The family dynamic took a darker turn, with Susan detailing past issues and strained relations between her grandson and his parents.

Among the victims were two Aramark employees, Robert Morales and Tiru Chabba, whose lives were tragically cut short. As the FSU community comes to terms with the devastating loss, many students recalled discomfort in their interactions with Phoenix, highlighting a broader conversation about radicalization among youth and the importance of community vigilance.

Despite the severity of the incident, authorities have not yet pinpointed a specific motive for the attacks. With police still investigating, the Florida State University campus remains on high alert, reflecting the urgent need for discussions about safety and mental health resources in educational environments.

Grandmother's Accusations Against Shooter's Parents

In a shocking twist following the Florida State University shooting, Susan Eriksen, the grandmother of the alleged shooter Phoenix Ikner, has laid the blame squarely on her grandson's father and stepmother. The 79-year-old has expressed deep concern over what she describes as their negative influence on her grandson.

Eriksen stated, “They taught him how to hunt, they're bigoted people, they hated a lot of people,” revealing the toxic environment she believes may have contributed to the tragic events. Her feelings resonate deeply amid the heartbreaking aftermath of the campus shooting.

As details about Phoenix's upbringing come to light, Eriksen shared her frustration at being cut off from her grandson. "We had just found a new phone number months ago, and when we called, he hung up. They're rotten bastard people," she lamented, hinting at the family strife that has plagued their relations.

Despite the turmoil, Eriksen described Phoenix as “the sweetest kid” who was intelligent and kind. Her loving words stand in stark contrast to the violence he is now accused of, underscoring the complexities of family bonds and the unforeseen paths that can lead to tragedy.

Impact of Family Influence on the Alleged Shooter

In the aftermath of the tragic shooting at Florida State University, discussions have turned to the impact of family dynamics on alleged shooter Phoenix Ikner. His grandmother, Susan Eriksen, has openly criticized his father and stepmother, contending that their parenting had a detrimental influence on her grandson, who was only 20 years old.

Susan described Phoenix's dad and stepmother as "rotten bastard people," accusing them of instilling prejudice and hostility in the young man. Her claims suggest a troubling family environment that may have contributed to the radical views Phoenix espoused, which included white supremacist ideologies.

Phoenix's complicated family situation, including estrangement from his biological mother, further complicates the narrative. Susan revealed that communication attempts with her grandson were thwarted when his father hung up and changed their phone number. This disconnect raises questions about the emotional support Phoenix may have desperately needed.

The chilling ties between family influence and violent behavior find echoes in the testimonies of peers wary of Phoenix's extremist beliefs. As students recount the discomfort his views created, the situation implores society to consider the ripple effects of familial relationships on youth, especially in the wake of such devastating events.