Full Breakdown
Investigation Underway Following Deadly Shooting at Old Dominion University
3/15/2026, 7:53:14 AM
Fatal Incident Overview
On March 12, 2026, a shooting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, resulted in one fatality and two injuries. The shooter, identified as 36-year-old Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former member of the Virginia Army National Guard, was killed by students after he opened fire in a classroom. The FBI is investigating the incident as a potential act of terrorism, given Jalloh's prior conviction for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State (ISIS).
Shooter's Background
Mohamed Bailor Jalloh had a history of extremist behavior. He was sentenced to 11 years in prison in 2017 after pleading guilty to charges related to ISIS. Released early in December 2024 under a federal provision for inmates who complete substance abuse treatment, Jalloh was on supervised release at the time of the shooting. His criminal history included attempts to conduct a terrorist attack similar to the 2009 Fort Hood shooting.
The Shooting Incident
The shooting occurred around 10:43 a.m. in Constant Hall, where Jalloh reportedly asked if the class was an ROTC session before opening fire. He fatally shot Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, a retired Army officer and ROTC instructor, and injured two other individuals, both of whom were affiliated with the military. Jalloh shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the attack, according to law enforcement sources.
Students in the classroom acted quickly, subduing Jalloh and preventing further casualties. FBI Special Agent Dominique Evans praised their bravery, stating, “They basically were able to terminate the threat.” Jalloh was not shot during the confrontation, but details on how he was subdued remain unclear.
Victims and Responses
Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, who was killed in the shooting, was remembered as a dedicated leader and family man. He had served in various military operations and returned to ODU to lead the ROTC program. The two injured victims were initially reported in critical condition, but one has since been upgraded to fair condition.
In response to the shooting, Old Dominion University canceled classes and operations for the remainder of the day. President Brian Hemphill expressed gratitude for the swift actions of law enforcement and emergency personnel.
Legal Proceedings
Following the shooting, federal authorities charged Kenya Chapman with selling a stolen firearm to Jalloh. Chapman allegedly sold the weapon to Jalloh, who claimed he needed it for protection. He is facing charges for making false statements during a firearm purchase and engaging in unlicensed firearms dealing.
Official Statements and Community Impact
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger and Army Secretary Dan Driscoll both expressed condolences and support for the victims and their families. The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is actively involved in the investigation, and local authorities have assured the community that there is no ongoing threat.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the FBI has confirmed the investigation as a potential act of terrorism, there are no indications that Jalloh's actions were motivated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Investigators have not found any explosives or additional weapons associated with Jalloh.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The shooter is now deceased thanks to a group of brave students who stepped in and subdued him – actions that undoubtedly saved lives along with the quick…” — Kash Patel, FBI Director
- “I am grateful for the swift response of our police officers, emergency management personnel, and our partners at the City of Norfolk who promptly assisted the injured,” — Brian Hemphill, ODU President
- “Above all else, Lt. Col. Shah embodied what it means to be a devoted family man, a revered leader, and heroic protector even in his final moments,” — U.S. Army Cadet Command
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to understand the full circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
