Breaking News: 2 Dead and 5 Injured in Florida State University Mass Shooting – Live Updates from CNN

Kylie Byun had just received an acceptance letter from her dream school, Florida State University. With her family, she was touring the Tallahassee campus when a shocking event unfolded.

Just minutes after leaving the student union, chaos erupted. An FSU student burst into their new location, urgently warning of an active shooter on campus. Kylie and her family were among a group of about 100 people in an auditorium, and panic quickly set in for many.

“We were locked in the room for about two hours with no windows,” Kylie shared. During that time, visitors stayed calm, but fear lingered. Her stepfather, Matt Gilchrist, expressed the intense concern they felt for not just their own safety, but for all the students on campus.

In the midst of uncertainty, the university’s response was commendable. They ensured everyone was safe, locking doors and controlling the situation as best they could. “I felt pretty secure… I felt pretty calm,” Kylie reflected on the university’s management of the crisis.

She credited the active shooter drills she participated in since elementary school for helping her stay composed during this frightening experience. “Those drills seemed pointless in the moment,” she said, “but they made me feel less stressed out now.”

This incident highlights a disturbing trend in educational environments. According to a recent report from the Center for Homeland Defense and Security, 94% of public schools in the U.S. conduct active shooter drills. While many students, like Kylie, find them helpful, others argue they create unnecessary anxiety and desensitization to violence.

As we navigate these unsettling times, stories like Kylie’s remind us of the importance of preparation and strong campus security. They also shine a light on the emotional toll such events take on young minds. It’s a balance between safety measures and the mental well-being of students, a topic that continues to spark debate among educators and parents alike.

In the end, as Kylie gears up for her college journey, her experience has shaped her perspective. She sees resilience in herself and hope for a safe campus experience at Florida State University, where she will pursue her future in biology and medicine.

This blend of fear, preparedness, and a desire for safety encapsulates what students today face. Let’s hope for a future where education is free of such threats, allowing young minds to thrive without fear.



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