Attack at Old Dominion University Leaves One Dead, Two Injured

FBI investigating the shooting as an act of terrorism

Mar. 13, 2026 at 11:18am

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An attack at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, has left one person dead and two people injured. The alleged gunman, 36-year-old Mohamed Jalloh, a naturalized U.S. citizen from Sierra Leone, opened fire in a classroom before being subdued and killed by students. The FBI is investigating the incident as an act of terrorism.

Why it matters

This attack raises concerns about campus safety and the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism, especially from individuals with prior ties to extremist groups. It also highlights the bravery of the students who intervened to prevent further loss of life.

The details

Jalloh, who had previously served in the Virginia National Guard and pleaded guilty in 2016 to trying to provide material support to ISIS, entered Constant Hall and opened fire on members of the Army ROTC program. Students were able to subdue and kill Jalloh, preventing further casualties.

  • The attack occurred shortly before 10:49 am on Thursday, March 13, 2026.
  • Jalloh was released from prison in December 2024 and was under supervised release at the time of the attack.

The players

Mohamed Jalloh

A 36-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen from Sierra Leone who was the alleged gunman in the attack. He had previously served in the Virginia National Guard and pleaded guilty in 2016 to trying to provide material support to ISIS.

Dominic Evans

The special agent in charge of the FBI's Norfolk field office, who stated that students showed 'extreme bravery and courage' in subduing the gunman.

Kash Patel

The FBI Director, who credited the students' actions for saving lives and confirmed the bureau would be investigating the incident as an 'act of terrorism'.

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What they’re saying

“The students showed extreme bravery and courage and prevented further loss of life as they rendered him no longer alive.”

— Dominic Evans, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Norfolk Field Office

“The students without doubt saved lives along with the quick response of law enforcement.”

— Kash Patel, FBI Director

What’s next

The FBI will continue its investigation into the attack, including Jalloh's potential ties to extremist groups and the timeline of events leading up to the shooting.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the importance of campus safety measures, as well as the critical role students can play in responding to active threats and saving lives.