Old Dominion University Shooting: Students Hailed as Heroes After Stopping Gunman
A tragic shooting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, turned into a story of bravery when students intervened and stopped the gunman during a terror-related attack. The incident left one instructor dead and two others injured before the suspect was subdued by students in the classroom.
Authorities say the shooting took place on the morning of March 12 inside a classroom at Constant Hall, where members of the university’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program were attending a session. The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, opened fire shortly after entering the room and confirming that it was an ROTC class.
Law enforcement later confirmed that the FBI is investigating the attack as an act of terrorism.
Instructor Killed, Two Others Injured in Classroom Attack
During the attack, Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, an ROTC instructor and decorated U.S. Army veteran, was fatally shot. Two other individuals connected to the program were wounded and rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. One of the injured victims was reported to be in critical condition while another received medical care and was later released.
Campus officials quickly issued alerts and law enforcement responded within minutes after reports of gunfire. Authorities later confirmed that the immediate threat had been neutralized, allowing emergency crews to secure the area and assist victims.
ROTC Students Confront and Subdue the Gunman
Investigators say the attack was brought to an end because of the quick actions of several ROTC students who confronted the gunman inside the classroom. According to officials, the students managed to overpower the suspect, and one of them reportedly stabbed the attacker during the struggle, ultimately stopping the shooting.
Federal officials praised the cadets for their courage, noting that their actions likely prevented additional casualties. Authorities said the students’ intervention ended the threat before law enforcement officers arrived at the scene.
Suspect Had Prior Terrorism Conviction
The alleged gunman had previously been convicted in a terrorism-related case. Investigators say Jalloh had pleaded guilty in 2016 to attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State group and served several years in federal prison before being released in December 2024.
Officials also reported that he had been a former member of the Army National Guard. The FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force is now leading the investigation to determine the motive behind the attack and whether the suspect had any additional connections or support.
Campus Community Mourns and Investigation Continues
Following the shooting, the university canceled classes and temporarily closed campus operations while authorities continued their investigation. University leaders and government officials expressed condolences to the victims’ families and praised the courage of the students who intervened.
Investigators are still reviewing the suspect’s background and activities leading up to the attack as part of the ongoing terrorism inquiry.
