Full Breakdown
Charges Filed Against Man for Selling Gun Used in Old Dominion University Shooting
3/15/2026, 10:11:03 AM
Overview of the Incident
On March 12, 2026, a shooting occurred at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, resulting in the death of Army Lt. Col. Brandon Shah and injuries to two others. The shooter, identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a 36-year-old former Virginia National Guardsman, opened fire in a classroom after confirming it was an ROTC class. Jalloh was subsequently subdued and killed by students in the classroom. The FBI is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism, particularly due to Jalloh's prior conviction for attempting to support the Islamic State (ISIS).
Arrest and Charges Against Kenya Chapman
Kenya Mcchell Chapman, 32, of Smithfield, Virginia, has been charged with selling a stolen Glock 44 .22-caliber firearm to Jalloh just days before the shooting. Chapman faces multiple federal charges, including three counts of making false statements during firearm purchases and one count of dealing firearms without a license. According to court documents, Chapman admitted to stealing the firearm from a vehicle in Newport News, Virginia, approximately one year prior to the shooting and selling it to Jalloh for $100.
Background of the Shooter
Jalloh had a criminal history that included a conviction in 2016 for attempting to provide material support to ISIS, for which he served time in federal prison until his release in December 2024. As a result of his felony conviction, Jalloh was prohibited from legally purchasing or owning firearms. Despite this, he allegedly told Chapman he needed the gun for protection while working as a delivery driver.
Details of the Shooting
During the attack, Jalloh reportedly shouted "Allahu Akbar" before opening fire. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as students fled the classroom. The FBI confirmed that Jalloh had only one weapon on him, which had a partially obliterated serial number, complicating efforts to trace its origins. Investigators linked Chapman to Jalloh through phone records, revealing multiple communications between them in the days leading up to the shooting.
Official Statements and Responses
FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized the importance of the students' actions in subduing Jalloh, stating, "The brave ROTC members in that room subdued him, and if not for them, I'm not sure what else he may have done." The Department of Justice has indicated that if convicted, Chapman could face a maximum sentence of 35 years in prison.
Criticism and Opposition
Chapman's previous interactions with law enforcement, including a 2021 investigation for straw purchasing firearms, have raised concerns about the effectiveness of existing regulations. Critics argue that stricter enforcement is necessary to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While the FBI has classified the shooting as an act of terrorism, there has been no indication that it was motivated by the ongoing geopolitical tensions, such as the recent conflict involving Iran. Additionally, the circumstances surrounding Jalloh's early release from prison remain unclear, as inmates convicted of terrorism-related offenses typically do not qualify for early release programs.
What's Next
The investigation into the shooting continues, with federal authorities examining the circumstances of the firearm's sale and the broader implications for gun control laws. The university has since closed its campus and is providing support to the affected community.
