Aramark Regional Vice President Tiru Chabba Identified as Second Victim in FSU Mass Shooting
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The community is reeling in the aftermath of a tragic mass shooting that occurred Thursday at Florida State University, leaving two dead and several others injured. Authorities have now confirmed the identity of the second victim as Tiru Chabba, a longtime executive with food service giant Aramark.
Chabba, who served as Regional Vice President for Aramark’s Southeast Division, was visiting FSU as part of his regular oversight of campus dining operations when the shooting broke out. His unexpected and senseless death has shaken both the university and his colleagues across the country.
A Career Built on Dedication
Chabba’s journey with Aramark began in 2000, when he took a student manager position at Coastal Carolina University. Over the next 25 years, he climbed the corporate ladder, becoming a respected leader in the field of collegiate hospitality. His colleagues remember him not only for his professional acumen but also for his warmth, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to his team and clients.
In a heartfelt company-wide message, Aramark shared the deep sorrow felt across the organization:
“It is with deep sadness that I share the news that our beloved Tiru Chabba was a victim of the mass shooting today at Florida State University. For over 25 years, Tiru has been a part of the Aramark family. This senseless act robbed us of a valued colleague and friend, and a family of their treasured husband and father.”
The message continued with a personal tribute from a fellow executive:
“Tiru was a trusted colleague and a good, good friend. He was admired by colleagues and clients alike. I will miss Tiru badly. Simply put, I am heartbroken.”
Aramark confirmed they are coordinating with Chabba’s family and are offering grief counseling and support resources to employees across the region.
A Tragedy at FSU
The incident unfolded mid-afternoon on Thursday on the main campus of Florida State University in Tallahassee. According to police, the gunman opened fire near a dining facility, striking eight people before being subdued. Two of the victims—Chabba and Robert Morales, an FSU dining worker from Miami-Dade County—died from their injuries.
Morales’ family mourned his loss in a public message:
“Today we lost my younger Brother. He was one of the victims killed at FSU. He loved his job at FSU and his beautiful Wife and Daughter.”
The shooter, identified as 20-year-old Phoenix Ikner, an FSU student, was shot during the confrontation and remains hospitalized with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities confirmed that Ikner is the son of a veteran Leon County Sheriff’s deputy, adding a complicated layer to the ongoing investigation.
Medical Update and Recovery
Tallahassee Memorial Hospital (TMH) continues to care for the six surviving victims. Three required emergency surgery for gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen. Hospital officials report that two patients are expected to be discharged by the end of the day. Three others are recovering steadily, and one remains in fair condition. Encouragingly, all are expected to fully recover.
TMH thanked the community for its outpouring of support, emphasizing the dedication of its emergency, trauma, and nursing staff during the crisis.
Investigation and Response
During a press conference Friday morning, Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell provided an update:
“Our hearts are with the victims, families, students, and larger Florida State University community in the wake of this tragedy. What occurred today was a heinous and despicable act of violence.”
He confirmed that two people were killed and six others injured—five by gunfire and one while fleeing the scene. Authorities have processed the crime scenes and stated that the motive behind the attack remains under investigation.
“TPD is committed to bringing justice to the victims in this case,” Chief Revell said.
Community Remembrance and Support
Florida State University has announced a candlelight vigil to be held Friday evening at Langford Green, offering students, faculty, and staff a space to honor the victims and begin healing.
Mental health and counseling services are being offered at the Askew Student Life Center daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours expected over the weekend.
As the university, the city of Tallahassee, and the broader Aramark community grieve, many are remembering Tiru Chabba not only for his professional achievements but for the kindness and leadership he brought to everyone who knew him.
