TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – Florida A&M University (FAMU), along with local and state officials, are reacting to a shooting on Perry Street Saturday night that injured 12 people.
FAMU President Marva Johnson released a statement on social media Sunday afternoon, saying she shares the community’s outrage and pleaded for those with information to contact TPD.
Johnson called the shooting “despicable” and said that FAMU is providing its “full support” to TPD officers and their investigation. She also said there are mental health resources available for FAMU students.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds took to X (formerly Twitter) to say he was troubled by the incident, as he is familiar with FAMU.
“I am devastated by this senseless violence at FAMU on homecoming weekend. I walked this campus as a student and cannot imagine why someone would commit such a heinous act,” Donalds said.
I am devastated by this senseless violence at FAMU on homecoming weekend. I walked this campus as a student and cannot imagine why someone would commit such a heinous act.
Praying for the 12 injured, including six children, and for the entire FAMU community.
— Byron Donalds (@ByronDonalds) October 25, 2026
Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Jolly shared on social media that he is praying for the victims and their families.
U.S. Senate candidate and State Rep. Angie Nixon expressed her sadness for the victims and their families in a statement Sunday morning.
“My heart is broken for the victims, their families, and the entire community. Homecoming weekend at FAMU is a time of profound joy, pride, and connection. To see that beautiful sense of community shattered by senseless violence is devastating, and learning that multiple victims are children is even more horrifying. As we pray for the swift recovery of everyone hurt, we must also take action to care for everyone impacted by this trauma and for each other. The gun violence in our country has to stop, and it will take all of us working together to heal our communities and protect our kids.”
Florida U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody said on social media that the shooting is “terrible news.” She called for a “thorough” investigation into the incident.
Terrible news following FAMU’s homecoming game. My heart breaks for the victims and their families.
We need a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice and put them behind bars.
— Senator Ashley Moody (@SenAshleyMoody) October 25, 2026
Leon County Commissioner Chairman Christian Caban said the news is heartbreaking and he is thinking of the victims, their families and all those affected.
“Our community stands together in support of our FAMU family and everyone affected by this terrible and unnecessary act of violence,” Caban said.
City Commissioner Jack Porter shared a statement on social media saying she was “horrified” by the incident. She shared mental health resources for those going through a hard time.
“My heart goes out to the victims and the entire FAMU community. I am keeping everyone affected in my thoughts and prayers and praying for healing during this incredibly difficult time,” Porter said.
County Commissioner David O’Keefe shared a statement on social media saying he is praying for the victims and emphasized the importance of a safe community.
He thanked first responders and provided financial and mental health resources for those affected.
“Firearms continue to be the leading cause of death for children and teens— this does not have to be the case. Together we can act to make common-sense laws that give our community a secure and safe future,” O’Keefe said in a statement.
Florida Education Commissioner Henry Mack said Florida students and families should not have to fear violence of any kind. He was grateful to the Tallahassee Police Department and other first responders for their swift response.
“My heart goes out to the victims, their families, and the entire Rattler community after last night’s tragic shooting near @FAMU_1887. As a Tallahassee resident, this hits especially close to home,” Mack said.
My heart goes out to the victims, their families, and the entire Rattler community after last night’s tragic shooting near @FAMU_1887. As a Tallahassee resident, this hits especially close to home.
Violence of any kind has no place in our communities. No student, no child, no family should have to experience the fear and heartbreak of senseless violence. @EducationFL stands with FAMU’s students, faculty, and staff.
Grateful to the Tallahassee Police Department and all first responders who responded so quickly. We pray for healing for everyone impacted.
— Henry Mack (@HenmackIII) October 25, 2026
City Commissioner Jeremy Matlow said Sunday that is thoughts are with the victims and their family. He said the community should “wrap our arms” around those affected.
“Our office will continue to share updates as we receive them. Please reach out if we can be of any assistance,” Matlow said.
FAMU Football Coach Quinn Gray said the Rattler’s loss in their homecoming game wasn’t the only thing on his mind Sunday. He said homecoming is about family and that no one should be caught in gunfire while celebrating FAMU.
“This senseless violence has to stop. No argument and no altercation is worth a life,” Gray said.
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