Prosecutor calls gun violence 'national sickness' after deadly ODU shooting

Norfolk Commonwealth's Attorney Ramin Fatehi criticizes lawmakers for failing to pass 'sensible gun control measures'.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:20pm

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A deadly shooting at Old Dominion University on Thursday left one person dead and another in critical condition. During a news conference, Norfolk Commonwealth's Attorney Ramin Fatehi called the shooting a reflection of a broader national problem with gun violence, criticizing lawmakers for not implementing 'sensible gun control measures'.

Why it matters

The shooting at ODU is the latest in a series of high-profile gun violence incidents across the United States, reigniting calls for stricter gun laws and highlighting the ongoing debate around balancing public safety and Second Amendment rights.

The details

Authorities say the suspect, identified as a former Army National Guard member previously convicted of attempting to provide material support to ISIS, walked into a classroom and opened fire, killing one person and critically injuring another. Police later found the suspected shooter dead at the scene.

  • The shooting occurred on Thursday at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia.
  • The victims were members of the university's ROTC program.

The players

Ramin Fatehi

The Norfolk Commonwealth's Attorney who criticized lawmakers for failing to pass 'sensible gun control measures'.

Garrett Shelton

The Chief of Police at Old Dominion University, who acknowledged the fear many students and parents are feeling following the shooting.

Brian O. Hemphill

The President of Old Dominion University, who expressed condolences to the victim's family and the university community.

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What they’re saying

“This is not an ODU problem. This is a national sickness.”

— Ramin Fatehi, Norfolk Commonwealth's Attorney (13newsnow.com)

“If you're looking for someone to blame, don't look at anyone up here. Look at our lawmakers who don't have the courage to implement sensible gun control measures.”

— Ramin Fatehi, Norfolk Commonwealth's Attorney (13newsnow.com)

“Every one of these kids are my kids. I treat them the same way, protect them the same way, as I would my own children that are away at college.”

— Garrett Shelton, Chief of Police, Old Dominion University (13newsnow.com)

What’s next

The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, and authorities are working to notify the victim's family members.

The takeaway

The shooting at Old Dominion University highlights the ongoing national debate around gun violence and the need for stricter gun control measures, as lawmakers continue to face criticism for their perceived inaction on the issue.