Robert Morales, a Miami-Dade native and Florida State University (FSU) alumnus, was one of two people killed in a tragic shooting on the FSU campus. The incident left at least six others injured.
Morales, who served as FSU’s dining director, was also a co-founder of the popular Gordos Cuban Cuisine in Tallahassee. A passionate advocate for Cuban food and culture, he played a key role in expanding the restaurant into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. He graduated from Hialeah Senior High School and had been working in university dining services since 2015.
“He loved his job at FSU and his beautiful wife and daughter,” wrote his brother, Ricardo Morales Jr., in a heartfelt tribute on social media. “You deserved better, Robert.”
A former assistant football coach at Leon High School, Morales was remembered by the school’s athletic department for his dedication and mentorship: “He was a trusted coach, a respected colleague, and a cherished friend.”
His death has deeply affected the Tallahassee and South Florida communities. Carlos Cruz, a longtime family friend, shared that his own son had narrowly avoided the shooting by choosing to stay in his dorm instead of meeting Morales as usual at the student union.
Robert was also the son of Ricardo “Monkey” Morales, a famed Cuban exile and CIA operative whose life story is the subject of an upcoming book.
Eddie Agramonte, owner of Gordos, expressed grief over Morales’ loss: “This is a horrible, senseless tragedy… The Seminole nation is strong, and I’m proud of how our community is rallying during this time of loss.”
Morales is survived by his wife and daughter.
