Heroic Responses in ODU Shooting Incident
For the first time, students who played a critical role during the mass shooting at Old Dominion University are sharing their experiences from that day, which resulted in the tragic death of a well-loved professor and several community members.
The shooter, Mohamed Jallow, had previously been convicted for supporting the Islamic State and opened fire on March 12, taking one life and injuring two others.
When officers arrived at the scene, the professor, Lt. Col. Brandon Sher, was already deceased. FBI Special Agent Dominic Evans reported that students in the classroom managed to subdue Jallow amidst the chaos.
Details of the Incident
Students recounted how, at first, it felt like an ordinary day. One student mentioned that a stranger, who turned out to be Jallow, entered the classroom, nervously asking, “Is this class ROTC?”
Cadet Louis Ancheta reflected, “I didn’t really grasp what that question implied at the moment.”
Cadet Wesley Myers, also present, relayed that once Sher confirmed the ROTC class, Jallow shouted “Allah Akbar” and began shooting at Sher.
As students described the events, they mentioned how Sher instinctively lunged at the gunman in an effort to protect everyone. During the struggle, Ancheta grabbed a pocketknife and attacked Jallow, hoping to stop him.
Cadet Jaila Utarte, seated at the front, expressed her gratitude for Sher’s bravery, stating, “If he hadn’t charged, I really might not be here right now. He put himself at risk.”
During the confrontation, Ancheta was hit by a stray bullet, but he continued to assist in subduing the attacker. “I wasn’t that shocked, honestly,” he recalled. “It felt crucial to help out.” Cadet Jeremy Rawlinson described switching to combat mode upon witnessing the violence unfold.
Cadet Samuel Reinberg noted that he focused intently on helping Sher, who had been injured in the process.
Reflections Post-Incident
It wasn’t until later in the day that students learned about Sher’s death, leading to feelings of regret among those who responded. “We all thought, ‘Could we have done more?’” said Cadet O’Shea Bego, emphasizing how Sher is seen as a hero among students.
Many expressed their disbelief at having to face such violence, especially before truly beginning their military careers. “We’re already grappling with these threats,” Bego added, illustrating the weight of the experience.
ODU President Brian O. Hemphill announced plans for an independent review of the incident, referring to it as a “defining moment” in the university’s history. He underlined the need to ensure the safety of the campus community moving forward, stating, “This is more than a procedural step; it’s a moral obligation.” The review will include assessments of preparation, response, and other vital elements related to campus safety.
