ROTC Students Subdue and Kill Shooter at Old Dominion University

One person killed, two wounded in campus attack before ROTC students intervened

Mar. 13, 2026 at 1:48am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A former Army National Guard member who had spent eight years in prison for attempting to aid the Islamic State opened fire on a classroom at Virginia's Old Dominion University on Thursday before ROTC students subdued and killed him, authorities said. The shooter, identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, had yelled 'Allahu Akbar' before the shooting, which left one person dead and two wounded.

Why it matters

The campus shooting is being investigated as an act of terrorism, highlighting concerns about the threat of homegrown extremism and the role of ROTC students in responding to active shooter situations on college campuses.

The details

Jalloh had pleaded guilty in 2016 to attempting to aid the Islamic State and was sentenced to 11 years in prison, before being released in December 2024. Authorities said he aspired to conduct a terrorist attack like the 2009 killings at Fort Hood. The ROTC students showed 'extreme bravery and courage' in stopping the gunman, according to the FBI.

  • The shooting occurred on Thursday, March 13, 2026.
  • Jalloh was released from federal custody in December 2024.

The players

Mohamed Bailor Jalloh

A former Army National Guard member who had spent eight years in prison for attempting to aid the Islamic State and opened fire on a classroom at Old Dominion University.

Garrett Shelton

Old Dominion University Police Chief.

Dominique Evans

Special agent in charge of the FBI's Norfolk field office.

Kash Patel

FBI Director.

Brandon Shah

The victim who died, an ROTC student at Old Dominion University and Army pilot.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

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

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

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.