Shooting at Old Dominion University Leaves 2 Critically Injured, Gunman Dead

The incident occurred at the school's Constant Hall, prompting a campus lockdown and emergency response.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:12pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A shooting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, on Thursday morning left two people critically injured and the gunman dead. The incident occurred around 10:49 a.m. in the school's Constant Hall, prompting an urgent campus alert and lockdown. The two injured victims were transported to a local hospital in critical condition, while the shooter was neutralized by authorities.

Why it matters

Campus shootings continue to be a tragic and all-too-common occurrence in the United States, raising concerns about school safety and the need for improved security measures and mental health resources. This incident at Old Dominion University will likely renew discussions around gun violence prevention and active shooter preparedness on college campuses.

The details

According to the university, the shooter opened fire just before 10:49 a.m. in Constant Hall. The school sent an emergency alert about an active threat in the building, and by 11:30 a.m. described the situation as an 'active shooter' incident. The gunman was eventually 'neutralized,' but the identities of the shooter and the two critically injured victims have not been released.

  • The shooting occurred around 10:49 a.m. on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
  • The university sent an emergency alert about an active threat in Constant Hall at 10:48 a.m.
  • By 11:30 a.m., the school described the incident as an 'active shooter' situation and said the shooter had been 'neutralized.'

The players

Old Dominion University

A public research university located in Norfolk, Virginia.

Constant Hall

The building on the Old Dominion University campus where the shooting occurred.

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital

The hospital where the two critically injured victims were transported.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger

The governor of Virginia who said she was closely monitoring the situation.

Brian O. Hemphill

The president of Old Dominion University who expressed thoughts and prayers to those impacted.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I have spoken with university leadership. My Administration remains in close contact with local emergency responders as state support is being mobilized to assist ODU and Norfolk.”

— Gov. Abigail Spanberger (X)

“We are deeply committed to safeguarding all Monarchs and ensuring a secure learning, living, and working environment at all times. We take this responsibility very seriously and remain vigilant in our efforts to maintain a safe campus.”

— Brian O. Hemphill, President, Old Dominion University (Statement)

What’s next

Authorities are expected to release more details about the shooter's identity and the circumstances surrounding the incident in the coming days.

The takeaway

This tragic shooting at Old Dominion University is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat of gun violence on college campuses, underscoring the need for comprehensive safety measures, mental health resources, and community-wide efforts to prevent such senseless acts of violence.