A deadly shooting at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, on Thursday has been classified as a suspected act of terrorism after authorities revealed the gunman was a previously convicted extremist supporter. The incident left one respected instructor dead, two others injured, and a campus community shaken — while the quick actions of students likely prevented a far greater tragedy.
ROTC Classroom Attack Turns Deadly
According to federal and local officials, the suspect entered a Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) classroom and opened fire shortly before 11 a.m. Witnesses say chaos erupted instantly — but instead of fleeing, several students confronted the attacker.
In a dramatic struggle, members of the ROTC unit subdued the gunman. Law enforcement sources indicate one student stabbed the assailant during the fight. By the time police arrived minutes later, the suspect was dead.
Authorities credit the students’ rapid response with stopping a potential mass-casualty event.
“If not for those brave individuals, the outcome could have been far worse,” an FBI official said during a press briefing.
Victim Identified as Decorated Military Instructor
The victim who lost his life was Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, a professor of military science and ROTC instructor at the university. He had served in the U.S. Army since 2003 and completed deployments in both Afghanistan and Iraq.
Shah accumulated more than 600 combat flight hours and received numerous military honors, including two Bronze Stars. State officials described him as a devoted leader who dedicated his career to mentoring future officers.
Two additional victims — also affiliated with the university — were hospitalized with injuries and are expected to survive.
Suspect Had Prior Terrorism Conviction
Investigators identified the shooter as 36-year-old Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former Virginia National Guard combat engineer. Court records show Jalloh previously pleaded guilty in 2017 to attempting to provide material support to ISIS.
He served an 11-year federal sentence after trying to obtain weapons and send funds to the terrorist organization. Unbeknownst to him at the time, he had been communicating with an FBI informant.
Jalloh was released from prison in December 2024.
Officials say he shouted “Allahu Akbar” — Arabic for “God is greater” — before launching the attack, a detail that contributed to the terrorism designation.
Possible Links to Earlier Extremist Violence
Federal authorities believe Jalloh had long been inspired by previous mass-casualty attacks against U.S. military targets, including the 2009 Fort Hood shooting. Investigators are now examining his activities since release, online behavior, and whether he had any accomplices.
The timing of the attack during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan is also under review. Authorities emphasized that the vast majority of Muslims observe the period peacefully as a time of fasting, charity, and spiritual reflection.
Campus Lockdown and Rapid Police Response
Emergency calls began flooding in at 10:43 a.m., with officers arriving approximately four minutes later. By 10:50 a.m., officials determined the attacker was deceased.
Students across campus received emergency alerts instructing them to follow “Run-Hide-Fight” active shooter protocols. Classes and operations were canceled for the remainder of the week.
One student described the terrifying moment crowds rushed into a nearby building screaming about a shooter.
“My heart dropped. I didn’t know how close the threat was,” he said.
Police eventually issued an all-clear, stating there was no ongoing danger to the campus community.
Counseling and Support Services Activated
University officials announced immediate mental health support, crisis counseling, and assistance services for students, faculty, and staff affected by the violence. Community leaders and state authorities pledged continued support as the investigation unfolds.
Growing Concerns About Campus Security
The Old Dominion shooting has reignited national debate over university safety, domestic terrorism prevention, and monitoring of individuals with prior extremist convictions.
Security experts note that campuses remain vulnerable soft targets due to open access, large populations, and predictable schedules. However, they also highlight the effectiveness of preparedness training — particularly the Run-Hide-Fight model — in reducing casualties during active shooter situations.
Ongoing Investigation
The FBI is leading the terrorism investigation and has asked the public to submit any information related to Jalloh’s recent activities. Officials say even minor details could help determine motive, planning, and whether warning signs were missed.
As the university community mourns Lt. Col. Shah and supports the injured, many are also recognizing the extraordinary courage displayed by the students who intervened.
Their actions, authorities say, likely saved countless lives.