A weekend filled with Rattler pride, celebration and homecoming traditions took a tragic turn Saturday night after gunfire erupted near Florida A&M University (FAMU), leaving 12 people injured, including six minors.
The shooting occurred shortly before 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, near the intersection of Perry and Manatee streets, outside FAMU’s Bragg Memorial Stadium.
On Oct. 26, Tallahassee police announced that 15-year-old Anthony Rivers III had been arrested in connection with the shooting.
The incident followed FAMU’s homecoming football game against the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, as thousands of students, alumni and visitors gathered in Tallahassee for one of the university’s most anticipated weekends of the year. According to the Tallahassee Police Department, 11 people suffered gunshot wounds, while a 12th person sustained an ankle injury while attempting to escape the gunfire.
The victims included six adults and six minors, with the youngest just 11 years old.
At least three victims sustained serious injuries. As of Sunday evening, five shooting victims had been released from the hospital, while six remained hospitalized, including one in critical condition.
Rivers was taken into custody Sunday, Oct. 25, and faces 11 counts of attempted second-degree murder and one count of possession of a firearm by a delinquent.
Police say shooting stemmed from altercation
Investigators believe the shooting followed a physical confrontation between individuals who knew one another.
According to police, preliminary findings suggest that none of the 11 people struck by gunfire were the intended targets.
Authorities identified Rivers as a suspect after reviewing physical evidence, surveillance footage and information provided by witnesses and community members.
“What should have been a weekend of celebration in our community instead became a night of fear and violence for the victims and their families,” Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell said in a statement Monday.
“While this arrest marks a significant step forward, our work is far from over. We remain committed to holding those responsible accountable and getting answers for every family impacted by this tragedy.”
Officers responding to the shooting administered emergency medical assistance and helped move victims to safety as law enforcement worked to secure the area.
Police credited community cooperation, including witness tips and submitted digital evidence, with helping advance the investigation.
Authorities said additional arrests remain possible as the investigation continues.
Rivers appeared in court Monday morning, where a judge ordered him to remain in custody. His arraignment is scheduled for Nov. 16.
A celebration of Rattler pride interrupted
For generations, FAMU homecoming has represented more than a football game. The annual celebration brings together generations of Rattlers, families, friends and supporters to honor the university’s history, culture and legacy.
Saturday night’s violence disrupted that spirit of celebration as gunshots sent people fleeing the area surrounding Bragg Memorial Stadium.
FAMU issued emergency safety alerts Saturday evening, advising students and visitors to avoid the area near Perry Street and the stadium.
University officials emphasized that the shooting occurred near campus and that the campus remained secure.
FAMU President Marva Johnson condemned the violence and pledged the university’s cooperation with law enforcement throughout the investigation.
Classes resumed Monday, with counseling resources made available to students affected by the incident.
The shooting has also brought renewed attention to concerns surrounding gun violence and public safety during large community gatherings, particularly when young people are among those harmed.
Investigation remains ongoing
The Tallahassee Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and is encouraging anyone who witnessed the incident or captured photographs or video to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the department’s dedicated tip line at 850-891-4610. Anonymous tips may also be submitted through Crime Solvers at 850-574-TIPS.
