Disturbing Post Surfaces From FSU Shooter Just Before Campus Tragedy
Shock and heartbreak continue to ripple across Florida State University after a devastating shooting left multiple students injured and a campus forever changed. Now, a chilling development has deepened the tragedy: a disturbing social media post made by the alleged shooter just hours before the rampage.
The shooter, identified by authorities as 22-year-old Matthew Langford, was a former FSU student who had reportedly dropped out last semester. Late Sunday night, Langford entered the university’s Strozier Library armed and opened fire on students studying for exams. Police responded within minutes, fatally shooting Langford after he failed to drop his weapon.
Three students were injured in the attack—two remain in critical condition.
But as investigators work to understand what motivated the horrific act, a recent post from Langford’s now-deleted social media profile has surfaced, sending chills across the campus community.
The message, posted just six hours before the shooting, read:
“I tried to be heard. I tried to matter. But when you scream into the void long enough, you either go silent—or go loud. Watch.”
Authorities have confirmed the authenticity of the post and are examining it as part of an ongoing investigation into Langford’s mental state and possible warning signs. FSU Police Chief Terrence Riley addressed the media Monday afternoon, stating, “This post is deeply troubling and seems to reflect a combination of isolation, anger, and despair. We are working with state and federal partners to analyze the shooter’s online activity, writings, and communications in the days leading up to this tragedy.”
The post has sparked widespread debate about mental health support, campus safety, and the role of social media in flagging dangerous behavior. Several classmates who knew Langford said they remembered him as quiet and withdrawn, but no one imagined he could become violent. One former peer shared, “He was just… invisible. I don’t think anyone saw this coming.”
University President Richard McCullough released a somber statement on Monday:
“We are grieving deeply. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we are committed to understanding how something so senseless could happen here. This is a time for unity, reflection, and above all, support—for each other and for those whose lives have been forever changed.”
Counseling services have been expanded across campus, and professors are being encouraged to offer flexibility for students who need time to cope. Vigils are already being planned, and students have begun leaving flowers, notes, and candles near the steps of Strozier Library.
As investigators dig deeper into Langford’s life and mindset, one thing is heartbreakingly clear: the signs were there—but buried in plain sight. The haunting message he left behind is now a grim reminder of the emotional pain that can fester when it goes unnoticed, unheard, or untreated.
For the students, faculty, and families of FSU, the healing will be long and difficult. But in the midst of sorrow, the campus community is vowing to stand together—to remember, to protect, and to make sure this never happens again.
