Old Dominion University Shooting: ISIS-Linked Gunman Killed After Attack

A former National Guard member with known alleged ties to the Islamic State has been identified as the gunman who opened fire inside an Old Dominion University classroom on 12 March 2026, killing one person and injuring two others.

The suspect, 36-year-old Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, was subdued and killed by students after attacking a room believed to be hosting a Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) session in Constant Hall.

The FBI has officially classified the incident as an act of terrorism, prompting an urgent inquiry into how Jalloh was able to carry out the attack less than two years after his release from federal prison.

The incident unfolded at the university's campus in Norfolk, Virginia, triggering an emergency lockdown and a swift response from law enforcement. Investigators later confirmed that Jalloh had been released from prison less than two years earlier after serving part of an 11-year sentence related to terrorism charges.

Gunman With Prior ISIS Links Opens Fire On Campus

According to authorities, Jalloh entered a classroom at Old Dominion University and began shooting during what was believed to be a class involving members of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps.

Witnesses reported that the gunman shouted 'Allah-u Akbar' before opening fire. One victim, identified as Army veteran and ROTC instructor Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, was killed in the attack, while two others were injured and taken to the hospital.

The shooting took place inside Constant Hall, which houses the university's College of Business. Emergency alerts were quickly issued across campus, warning students and staff to avoid the area and follow active shooter protocols. Within minutes, police and first responders arrived, securing the scene and confirming that the gunman was no longer a threat.

Investigators soon revealed that Jalloh had a troubling history. The 36-year-old naturalised US citizen originally from Sierra Leone had previously pleaded guilty in 2016 to attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State. Federal prosecutors said he had tried to donate money and acquire weapons to assist the terrorist organisation after becoming radicalised by extremist propaganda.

He was sentenced to 11 years in prison in 2017 but was released in December 2024 under supervised release, which was expected to continue until 2029. His early release has raised questions among officials and lawmakers who are now seeking answers about how someone with known extremist ties was able to carry out a deadly attack.

ROTC Students Stop The Attack As Terrorism Probe Begins

Authorities say the violence could have been far worse if not for the quick actions of several ROTC students who confronted the gunman. According to investigators, the students managed to subdue Jalloh during the chaos, ultimately killing him and preventing further casualties.

FBI officials praised the cadets for their bravery, saying their actions likely saved lives. Dominique Evans, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Norfolk field office, described their response as an act of 'extreme bravery and courage' during a news briefing following the incident.

The FBI has confirmed that the shooting is being investigated as an act of terrorism. Authorities are working through the Joint Terrorism Task Force to determine whether Jalloh acted alone or had any external support or influence leading up to the attack.

In the aftermath, Old Dominion University cancelled classes and temporarily suspended operations, while counselling and support services were offered to students and staff affected by the tragedy. University president Brian Hemphill expressed gratitude to emergency responders and praised those who intervened during the incident.

Examining Intelligence Failures And Oversight

The revelation that a convicted terrorist with a history of attempting to support the Islamic State was able to access a secure campus environment has triggered a wave of calls for oversight reform. Federal lawmakers are already demanding answers from the Department of Justice regarding the supervision of Jalloh during his period of mandatory release.

As the investigation continues, officials are focused on reviewing the suspect's digital communications and recent movements to identify any missed warning signs that may have preceded the tragedy at Constant Hall.