Old Dominion University Shooting: ROTC Student Stops Former ISIS Supporter
A Thursday morning at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, turned tragic when Mohamed Jalloh opened fire on campus, leaving one person dead and two injured before being fatally subdued. The incident, which unfolded in a classroom setting, quickly drew attention to Jalloh’s background – a history that includes service in the Virginia Army National Guard and a prior conviction for attempting to provide material support to ISIS.
From National Guard to Federal Prison
Jalloh, 36, served as a combat engineer in the Virginia Army National Guard from April 2009 to April 2015, reaching the rank of specialist. His military record shows no deployments during his six years of service. Though, his life took a sharp turn after leaving the Army. In 2016, he began expressing support for ISIS and attempting to contribute to the organization’s efforts. Court records reveal Jalloh attempted to purchase weapons and donate funds to ISIS, believing Ramadan would be an opportune time to launch an attack. He was reportedly radicalized by extremist propaganda, including lectures from al-Qaeda-linked cleric Anwar al-Awlaki.
He was arrested on July 3, 2016, and ultimately pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to ISIS. In October 2017, he was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, a sentence that prosecutors had argued should have been 20 years. Court documents detailing the sentencing are publicly available.
The Attack and Heroic Intervention
The shooting at ODU began with Jalloh reportedly shouting “Allahu Akbar” – “God is greater” – before opening fire. FBI Special Agent in Charge Dominique Evans stated that brave ROTC members present in the classroom intervened, ultimately subduing Jalloh. According to multiple law enforcement sources, one of the students stabbed Jalloh during the confrontation. The exact cause of Jalloh’s death remains under investigation.
The incident prompted a swift response from law enforcement and university officials. Authorities confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the ODU campus community following the shooting. The university has offered counseling services to students and staff affected by the tragedy.
A Troubled Past and Early Release
Recent reports indicate that Jalloh was released from prison early after completing a drug program. AP News reported on this detail, raising questions about the oversight and monitoring of individuals with extremist backgrounds upon their release from incarceration. The circumstances surrounding his early release are now under scrutiny.
ISIS Affiliation and Radicalization
Jalloh’s prior conviction for supporting ISIS underscores the ongoing threat of domestic extremism. His radicalization process, fueled by extremist propaganda, highlights the challenges law enforcement and intelligence agencies face in identifying and preventing individuals from becoming radicalized. The case also brings into focus the potential for individuals with military training to be drawn to extremist ideologies.
According to the source material, Jalloh praised past attacks on U.S. Military targets, including the 2009 Fort Hood shooting, which claimed the lives of 13 people and injured 32 others. This demonstrates a clear pattern of extremist sympathies and a potential desire to inflict harm on American soil.
The ROTC Students’ Role
The intervention of the ROTC students has been widely praised as heroic. News reports emphasize that their quick thinking and bravery likely prevented further casualties. The specific details of their actions are still emerging, but their intervention is being credited with bringing the situation under control.
The Old Dominion University shooting serves as a stark reminder of the complex challenges posed by domestic extremism and the importance of vigilance and preparedness. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine the full extent of Jalloh’s motives and any potential connections to broader extremist networks.
As of now, there are no indications of further threats to the ODU campus. The university is focused on supporting its community and providing resources for those affected by this tragic event.