Fatal Shooting at Old Dominion University Investigated as Terrorism by FBI
Police responded to reports of a shooting on Thursday at Old Dominion University's campus, where a tragic incident left one person dead and two others injured. The FBI has confirmed that the shooting is being investigated as an act of terrorism, with authorities identifying the suspect as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former member of the army national guard who had previously pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State.
Details of the Incident and Suspect
According to a person familiar with the matter who spoke to the Associated Press, Jalloh was sentenced to 11 years in prison in 2016 and was released from federal custody in December 2024. The shooting occurred in one of the classrooms in the university's business school building, Constant Hall, prompting a swift emergency response from law enforcement.
FBI Director Kash Patel stated on social media that the shooter is now deceased, thanks to the brave actions of students who subdued him, which likely saved lives. Patel emphasized that the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is fully engaged with local authorities, providing all necessary resources for the investigation.
Response and Investigation
At a news conference, Old Dominion University Police Chief Garrett Shelton reported that officers arrived within less than 10 minutes of the call and found the shooter dead. The investigation is still in its early stages, with authorities yet to determine the full cause of death for the shooter. Shelton did not confirm whether any officers fired a weapon during the incident.
All three victims are affiliated with the university, with two being members of the army reserve officers' training corps at ODU, as confirmed by Lt Col Jimmy Delongchamp from the US army cadet command. Sentara Health reported that two victims were transported to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where one died and the other remains in critical condition. A third victim was treated and released after arriving at a free-standing emergency department in Virginia Beach.
University and Community Impact
Within about an hour of the shooting, ODU declared that there was no longer a threat on campus. The public university in Norfolk, which has approximately 24,000 students, canceled classes and suspended all operations through Friday. Counseling and food services remain available to support the community.
In a message to the university, President Brian Hemphill expressed gratitude for the swift emergency response and extended thoughts and prayers to those impacted. He reiterated the university's commitment to safety, stating that safeguarding all students and staff is a top priority.
Government and Agency Involvement
The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announced on social media that agents were on scene to support the response. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger also stated that she is monitoring the situation and that state support is being mobilized to assist ODU, though specifics were not provided.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun crime and terrorism in educational settings, with authorities continuing to investigate the motives and circumstances behind the shooting.
