Full Breakdown
Deadly Shooting at Old Dominion University Investigated as Act of Terrorism
3/13/2026, 9:00:34 AM
Overview of the Incident
On March 12, 2026, a shooting at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, resulted in one fatality and two injuries. The shooter, identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former Army National Guard member, opened fire in a classroom at approximately 10:49 a.m. before being subdued and killed by Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) students. The FBI is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism, particularly due to Jalloh's previous conviction for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State (ISIS).
Background on the Shooter
Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, 36, was a naturalized U.S. citizen from Sierra Leone. He served in the Virginia Army National Guard from 2009 until 2015, when he was honorably discharged. In 2016, Jalloh pleaded guilty to charges related to attempting to aid ISIS, which included efforts to fund the group and acquire firearms for a planned attack. He was sentenced to 11 years in prison and released in December 2024. Prior to the shooting, Jalloh had expressed intentions to emulate the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, which left 13 dead.
Details of the Shooting
The shooting occurred in Constant Hall, the university's business school building. Jalloh reportedly shouted “Allahu Akbar” before opening fire. The victims included Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, an ROTC instructor who was killed, and two ROTC students who were injured. One of the injured students remains in critical condition, while the other has been treated and released. The university canceled classes and suspended operations for the following day, urging the community to avoid the area.
Response and Investigation
FBI Director Kash Patel commended the ROTC students for their bravery in subduing Jalloh, stating their actions likely prevented further casualties. ODU Police Chief Garrett Shelton confirmed that law enforcement arrived within ten minutes of the initial reports and found Jalloh deceased, though the cause of death has not been disclosed. Investigators have not confirmed whether law enforcement fired any shots during the incident.
Official Statements
In a message to the university community, ODU President Brian Hemphill expressed gratitude for the rapid response from emergency services and extended condolences to those affected. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger also offered support, stating that state resources were being mobilized to assist the university.
Criticism & Opposition
Jalloh's family, including his sister Fatmatu Jalloh, expressed shock and confusion over the incident, stating they were unaware of any violent intentions. Ashraf Nubani, Jalloh's attorney from his previous case, condemned the violence, emphasizing that it contradicts Islamic teachings.
What's Next
The investigation into the shooting continues, with federal authorities leading the inquiry. The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is involved, and further details regarding Jalloh's motivations and the circumstances surrounding the shooting are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The ROTC students subdued him and rendered him no longer alive,” — Dominique Evans, Special Agent, FBI Norfolk Field Office
- “The safety of our campus community is my top priority,” — Brian Hemphill, ODU President
- “Any loss of life is tragic, and violence against innocent people is completely contrary to Islamic teachings and basic human morality,” — Ashraf Nubani, Attorney for Jalloh
This tragic event underscores ongoing concerns regarding campus safety and the potential for radicalization among individuals with prior military backgrounds.
