Army Officer Killed in Old Dominion Shooting Remembered as Hero

Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, 42, was a Reserve Officers' Training Corps instructor who died protecting students

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:28am

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An Army lieutenant colonel who was shot and killed at Old Dominion University on Thursday is being remembered as a true hero and protector. Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, 42, was a Reserve Officers' Training Corps instructor at the university. He was killed when a gunman opened fire, injuring two others before being subdued and killed by ROTC students.

Why it matters

The shooting at Old Dominion University has shaken the community and raised concerns about campus safety. Lt. Col. Shah's actions in protecting his students have been praised, highlighting the bravery of those who serve in the military and the risks they face, even in educational settings.

The details

Federal investigators say Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former member of the Virginia Army National Guard, killed Shah and injured two other people before ROTC students subdued and killed him. Shah was a professor of military science at Old Dominion University and a respected leader, guiding students in the Army ROTC Monarch Battalion. He was an experienced Army pilot who had served in combat operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eastern Europe.

  • The shooting occurred on Thursday at Old Dominion University.
  • On Friday, federal officials released new details about the incident, saying Jalloh yelled 'Allahu Akbar' before opening fire.

The players

Lt. Col. Brandon Shah

A 42-year-old Army lieutenant colonel and Reserve Officers' Training Corps instructor at Old Dominion University, remembered as a devoted family man, revered leader, and heroic protector.

Mohamed Bailor Jalloh

A former member of the Virginia Army National Guard who opened fire at Old Dominion University, killing Lt. Col. Shah and injuring two others before being subdued and killed by ROTC students.

Brian Hemphill

The president of Old Dominion University, who praised Lt. Col. Shah as a 'shining example' for his students and all Monarchs.

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What they’re saying

“Lt. Col. Shah embodied what it means to be a devoted family man, a revered leader, and heroic protector even in his final moments. He was a shining example for his students and all Monarchs.”

— Brian Hemphill, President, Old Dominion University

What’s next

The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and federal officials have released new details about the incident. The university community is mourning the loss of Lt. Col. Shah and supporting those affected by the tragedy.

The takeaway

This tragic event highlights the bravery and sacrifice of those who serve in the military, even in educational settings. Lt. Col. Shah's actions in protecting his students have been widely praised, and his legacy will continue to inspire those he mentored and the broader community.