Shooting at Old Dominion University
A shooting incident at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, has led to one death and two injuries, with the alleged shooter also dead. Authorities received reports of gunfire at Constant Hall around 10:43 a.m.
According to ODU Police Chief Garrett Shelton, the two main victims are recovering, now stabilizing from previous critical conditions. A third person sought treatment at a hospital in Virginia Beach, but there’s no confirmation about his condition yet.
Officers responded to the scene just before 11 a.m. and found the suspect deceased. It’s not clear if the suspect died by self-infliction or from actions taken by police.
The shooter was identified as Mohamed Jallow, a 36-year-old former member of the Virginia Army National Guard, who served from 2009 until 2015. His life took a turn following his arrest in July 2016 during an FBI operation.
Jallow faced charges for attempting to support ISIS, showing interest in a major attack reminiscent of the Fort Hood incident, and trying to buy a rifle. Court documents indicated he became radicalized through online resources and trips to Africa, where he met with ISIS affiliates.
After pleading guilty, he received an 11-year prison sentence in February 2017, followed by five years of supervised release. Records show he was released from federal custody in December 2024.
The U.S. Army Cadet Command has confirmed that the victims were part of the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), which trains students for military leadership roles while allowing them to pursue college degrees.
“We are devastated by the mass shooting at Old Dominion University on March 12, 2026. We can confirm that two members of the university’s ROTC program were shot and taken to the hospital for treatment,” stated the command.
ODU officials announced around 12:15 p.m. that the emergency situation at Constant Hall had been resolved, stating there was no longer an active threat. They advised the public to avoid the area where emergency personnel were still present.
In a statement, ODU President Brian Hemphill canceled classes for the rest of the day and Friday, emphasizing the availability of counseling resources for students and staff.
“The safety of our campus community is my top priority. We are committed to ensuring a safe environment. My thoughts are with those impacted by the shooting,” Hemphill expressed.
Authorities urged the public to stay clear of the Constant Hall vicinity as investigations continue.
Logan Hayes, a sophomore at ODU, was in the building taking an exam when he heard the commotion. He recounted fleeing after the fire alarm went off, describing hearing numerous gunshots and people screaming.
“It was chaotic,” he noted.
Governor Abigail Spanberger confirmed she was monitoring the situation and stated that federal officials were collaborating with local authorities to handle the response.
“I am in close contact with university leaders. My administration is coordinating with local emergency teams as state assistance is mobilized,” she tweeted.
The FBI is also involved, assuring that they are providing support in response to the shooting.
