ROTC Students Stop Gunman at Old Dominion University

Shooting leaves one professor dead, two others injured before students subdue suspect

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:49pm

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A gunman opened fire inside an academic building at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia on Thursday, killing an ROTC instructor and injuring two others before students subdued the suspect, authorities said. The suspected gunman, 41-year-old Mohamed Jalloh, allegedly entered a classroom in Constant Hall, asked if it was an ROTC class and opened fire after receiving confirmation. ROTC students in the room acted quickly and physically subdued the suspect, ending the threat before police arrived.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing threat of gun violence on college campuses and the critical role that ROTC students can play in responding to such emergencies. It also raises concerns about the release of convicted extremists and the potential for radicalization.

The details

Officials identified the victim as Brandon Shah, a lieutenant colonel, Army aviator and professor of military science who taught in the university's ROTC program. Authorities said Jalloh previously served in the Virginia Army National Guard and was convicted in 2016 for attempting to provide material support to the extremist group ISIS. He was released from federal prison in December 2024. The FBI is investigating the incident as a possible act of terrorism.

  • The shooting occurred on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
  • Jalloh was released from federal prison in December 2024.

The players

Brandon Shah

A lieutenant colonel, Army aviator and professor of military science who taught in the university's ROTC program.

Mohamed Jalloh

A 41-year-old man who previously served in the Virginia Army National Guard and was convicted in 2016 for attempting to provide material support to the extremist group ISIS. He was released from federal prison in December 2024.

Old Dominion University

A public research university located in Norfolk, Virginia.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

The federal law enforcement agency that is investigating the incident as a possible act of terrorism.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The FBI is continuing its investigation into the incident and the potential motives of the suspect.

The takeaway

This tragic event underscores the importance of vigilance and preparedness on college campuses, as well as the ongoing challenges in addressing the threat of gun violence and extremism in our society.