Full Breakdown
Old Dominion University Shooting Investigated as Act of Terrorism
3/15/2026, 1:10:52 AM
Overview of the Incident
On March 12, 2026, a shooting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, resulted in one death and two injuries, prompting an investigation by the FBI as an act of terrorism. The shooter, identified as 36-year-old Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former member of the Virginia Army National Guard, opened fire in a classroom at Constant Hall after confirming it was an ROTC class. Jalloh was subdued and killed by students before law enforcement arrived.
Background on the Shooter
Mohamed Bailor Jalloh had a criminal history involving terrorism-related charges. In 2016, he pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State (ISIS) and was sentenced to 11 years in prison. He was released early in December 2024 after completing a substance abuse treatment program. Jalloh had previously expressed intentions to conduct a terrorist attack and had communicated with ISIS members, indicating a clear ideological motivation for his actions.
Details of the Shooting
The shooting occurred shortly before 11 a.m. when Jalloh entered the classroom, asked if it was an ROTC class, and then opened fire, fatally injuring the instructor, Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, a retired Army officer. Two other ROTC students were injured in the incident. Witnesses reported hearing screams and gunfire, prompting an immediate evacuation of the building. The university issued alerts advising students to follow "run-hide-fight" protocols.
Response and Aftermath
Students played a crucial role in stopping the attack by physically confronting Jalloh, which prevented further casualties. FBI Director Kash Patel commended the students for their bravery, stating their actions "undoubtedly saved lives." The police response was swift, with officers arriving within minutes and declaring the situation under control shortly thereafter.
Official Statements and Community Impact
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger expressed her condolences and emphasized the need for community support in the aftermath of the tragedy. University President Brian Hemphill acknowledged the impact of the shooting on the campus community and announced the closure of the university for the following day. Counseling services were made available to support students and staff affected by the incident.
Criticism and Concerns
The circumstances surrounding Jalloh's early release from prison have raised questions about federal policies regarding inmates convicted of terrorism-related offenses. The Bureau of Prisons stated that updates to policies regarding early release for such offenders had been stalled due to collective bargaining obligations. Following this incident, the Bureau announced that no inmates with terrorism-related charges would qualify for early release under the relevant provisions moving forward.
Conflicting Reports and Investigative Gaps
While the FBI has classified the shooting as an act of terrorism, investigators have not confirmed a specific motive beyond Jalloh's documented history with ISIS. There were no indications that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East influenced his actions. The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the full context of the shooting and any potential connections to broader terrorist activities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “thanks to a group of brave students who stepped in and subdued him.” — Kash Patel, FBI Director
- “Today was a tragic day for the campus of Old Dominion University,” — Brian Hemphill, University President
- “I'm praying for them and all those impacted by this terrible event,” — Dan Driscoll, Army Secretary
The Old Dominion University shooting underscores ongoing concerns about domestic terrorism and the complexities surrounding the reintegration of individuals with a history of extremist affiliations into society.
