Old Dominion University Shooting Suspect Identified

Gunman was a convicted ISIS supporter with a history of violence

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:05am

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Authorities have identified the gunman in the deadly shooting at Old Dominion University as 42-year-old Brian Todd, a former U.S. Army veteran and convicted supporter of the Islamic State terrorist group. Todd opened fire on the Norfolk, Virginia campus, killing 3 students and injuring several others before being shot and killed by police.

Why it matters

This attack raises serious concerns about the threat of domestic terrorism and the ability of law enforcement to monitor and prevent such incidents, especially those involving individuals with a history of extremist ties and violent behavior.

The details

According to police, Todd had been under investigation for his ties to ISIS and had previously served a 5-year federal prison sentence for providing material support to the terrorist organization. He was released on parole in 2024 and had been living in the Sterling, Virginia area prior to the shooting.

  • The shooting occurred on the afternoon of March 12, 2026 at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia.
  • Todd had been released from federal prison on parole in 2024 after serving a 5-year sentence for supporting ISIS.

The players

Brian Todd

A 42-year-old former U.S. Army veteran and convicted supporter of the Islamic State terrorist group who carried out the deadly shooting at Old Dominion University.

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What they’re saying

“This was a horrific and tragic attack that has shaken our community. Our focus now is on supporting the victims and their families, and working with law enforcement to fully understand the motives and events that led to this senseless violence.”

— John Broderick, President, Old Dominion University

What’s next

Authorities have launched a full investigation into the shooting and Todd's background, including his time in the military and his radicalization process. The university has also announced plans to increase campus security measures and provide counseling services for students, faculty and staff affected by the attack.

The takeaway

This shooting underscores the ongoing threat of domestic terrorism and the challenges law enforcement face in monitoring and preventing such attacks, especially from individuals with a history of extremist ties and violent behavior who have been released back into communities.