Old Dominion University Shooting: 1 Killed, ISIS Sympathizer Suspect
Old Dominion University Shooting: ROTC Students Subdue Gunman After Deadly Attack
A shooting at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, on Thursday, March 12, 2026, left one person dead and two others critically injured before the gunman was subdued and killed by students in the university’s Army ROTC program. The FBI has identified the shooter as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former Army National Guard member with a history of supporting the Islamic State.
The incident unfolded in a business school building on the ODU campus, prompting a swift response from university police, federal agents, and emergency medical personnel. While details surrounding the motive and the precise sequence of events are still emerging, officials have confirmed Jalloh had previously served eight years in prison for attempting to provide material support to the designated foreign terrorist organization, ISIL.
A Rapidly Developing Situation
The shooting occurred Thursday morning, and within an hour, ODU declared the campus safe, though classes were canceled and all operations suspended for the remainder of the day. University President Brian Hemphill emphasized the safety of the campus community as his “top priority,” stating the university is “deeply committed to safeguarding all Monarchs.”
Two victims were transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where one succumbed to their injuries. U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans identified the deceased as Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, the head of the university’s Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program and a professor of military science. Shah was an ODU alumnus and a decorated veteran, having completed tours of duty in both Iraq and Afghanistan, flying AH-64 Apache and other aircraft. He received two Bronze Stars among other commendations.
The Shooter’s Background and Alleged Statements
Mohamed Bailor Jalloh’s past involvement with extremist groups came to light quickly following the shooting. He was originally sentenced in February 2017 for providing support to ISIL. During the attack, a source close to the investigation reported Jalloh shouted “Allahu akbar,” the Arabic phrase meaning “God is great.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) dispatched agents to the scene to assist in the investigation, and Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger announced that state support was being mobilized to aid ODU. The FBI is now leading the investigation, classifying the incident as a potential act of terrorism.
ROTC Students Intervene
What distinguishes this incident from many others is the decisive action taken by the ROTC students present during the shooting. According to reports, they subdued and ultimately killed Jalloh, preventing further casualties. Details regarding the specifics of their intervention remain limited, but officials have confirmed their actions were instrumental in ending the threat. WAVY.com reported that students “rendered the gunman no longer alive.”
Confirmed vs. Unclear Details
As of Friday, March 13, 2026, several key details remain unclear. The exact sequence of events leading up to the shooting, the specific type of weapon used by Jalloh, and the full extent of his connections to extremist groups are still under investigation. It remains unclear how Jalloh was able to obtain a firearm given his prior conviction. The report did not specify the nature of the injuries sustained by the two surviving victims beyond confirming they are in critical condition.
What is confirmed:
- The Shooter: Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former Army National Guard member with a prior conviction for supporting ISIL.
- The Victim: Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, head of ODU’s Army ROTC program.
- The Intervention: ROTC students subdued and killed the shooter.
- The Response: A swift response from ODU police, the FBI, ATF, and state officials.
- The Status: The campus is no longer considered to be under threat.
Background: The Threat of ISIL-Inspired Attacks
The ODU shooting underscores the ongoing threat posed by individuals inspired by extremist ideologies, particularly ISIL. Despite the territorial defeat of the group in Iraq and Syria, ISIL continues to inspire attacks globally through online propaganda and recruitment efforts. The Associated Press notes that Jalloh’s prior conviction highlights the challenges of monitoring and preventing attacks by individuals radicalized online or through other means.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has consistently warned of the potential for “lone wolf” attacks by individuals sympathetic to extremist groups. These attacks are often difficult to predict and prevent, as they are typically carried out by individuals acting independently and with limited planning.
What Happens Next?
The FBI is leading a comprehensive investigation into the shooting, focusing on Jalloh’s background, motivations, and any potential connections to other extremist groups. Investigators will likely examine his online activity, communications, and any evidence of planning or preparation for the attack.
The university is providing counseling and support services to students, faculty, and staff affected by the tragedy. A memorial service for Lt. Col. Shah is expected to be held in the coming days. The Virginian-Pilot reports that Shah enlisted in the Army in 2003 and was a highly decorated officer.
The incident is likely to reignite the debate over gun control and the need for enhanced security measures on college campuses. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of programs designed to counter violent extremism and rehabilitate individuals who have been radicalized.
Reader FAQ
Q: Was the shooter a current student at Old Dominion University?
A: No, the shooter, Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, was not a current student. He was a former Army National Guard member.
Q: What is ISIL?
A: ISIL, also known as ISIS or the Islamic State, is a militant Islamist group that formerly controlled territory in Iraq and Syria. Despite losing its territorial control, it continues to inspire attacks globally.
Q: How did the ROTC students subdue the shooter?
A: Details regarding the specifics of the intervention are still limited and under investigation.
Q: What resources are available for students and staff affected by the shooting?
A: Old Dominion University is providing counseling and support services to those affected by the tragedy. Information can be found on the university’s website.
Q: Is this being investigated as a terrorist attack?
A: Yes, the FBI is investigating the shooting as a potential act of terrorism, given the shooter’s prior conviction for supporting ISIL.