Shooter in Fatal Old Dominion University Attack Had Obliterated Gun Serial Number

Authorities say the gun used in the shooting that killed an ROTC leader had its serial number removed, complicating the investigation.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:06pm

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The shooter who opened fire in a classroom at Virginia's Old Dominion University on Thursday, in an attack being investigated as an act of terrorism, had a gun with an obliterated serial number, according to a law enforcement official. The shooter, identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former Army National Guard member who pleaded guilty in 2016 to attempting to aid the Islamic State, was subdued and killed by ROTC students. The shooting killed an ROTC leader who was a professor of military science at ODU, and left two others hurt.

Why it matters

The obliterated serial number on the gun used in the attack could make it more difficult for investigators to trace the weapon and determine how the shooter, a convicted felon, obtained it. This case highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence and the challenges law enforcement faces in tracking firearms used in crimes.

The details

Investigators will have to try to re-surface the number on the gun in order to trace it, according to the law enforcement official. Jalloh, who yelled 'Allahu akbar' before opening fire, was released from federal custody in December 2024 after serving 11 years in prison for attempting to aid the Islamic State. He was on supervised release at the time of the shooting.

  • The shooting occurred on Thursday at Virginia's Old Dominion University.
  • Jalloh was released from federal custody in December 2024 after serving 11 years in prison.

The players

Mohamed Bailor Jalloh

The shooter, a former Army National Guard member who pleaded guilty in 2016 to attempting to aid the Islamic State.

Lt. Col. Brandon Shah

The ROTC leader and professor of military science at ODU who was killed in the shooting.

Old Dominion University

The university where the shooting took place.

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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 judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.