Mike Norvell pens emotional message on Florida State shooting

On Thursday, a shooting at Florida State University left two people dead and six others injured. Thousands of members of the Seminoles community gathered on Friday at a vigil to remember those who died in the horrific incident.

Florida State canceled all classes on Friday, but that didn’t stop countless people from showing up on campus to pay their respects to the two people who lost their lives. On Friday evening, FSU football head coach Mike Norvell released a heartfelt statement reflecting on the past two days.

“As this day comes to an end, I find myself reflecting over the last 36 hours. I do not have the right words which fully grasp the depth of emotions which I feel,” Norvell wrote. “The sadness which has covered our wonderful University by the events that took place Thursday is overwhelming. The hurt and anger is infuriating, while not knowing why something like this would ever occur. I’m so grateful for the law enforcement and first responders for all they did as they cared for those in need.

“I am filled with empathy for all the victims, families, and individuals affected by this tragic act. I love this community, it is filled with an incredible culture and a deep care for its residents. Thank you for coming together and loving each other in this time of grieving. I am blessed with the responsibility to help guide the leaders of tomorrow to be a positive difference maker in this World.

“It simply starts with one positive step. In a time of darkness we can be a light for others if we choose to let that light shine. I Love You Tallahassee, FSU and all the NoleFamily! Let’s make a positive impact together as we honor those impacted in this senseless act. Matthew 5:14-16.”

Local officials haven’t publicly identified the two people who died in the shooting. However, according to the Associated Press, Robert Morales, a university dining coordinator, was one of them. The other was reportedly Tiru Chabba, who was working for food service vendor Aramark.

Per FSU President Richard McCullough, some of the people who were wounded are students. The shooting occurred only a few hours before a forum on campus was to take place in a classroom building nearby. The forum was going to cover the concept of countering hate on campus. The suspected shooter was apprehended.