Old Dominion University Shooting: Gunman With ISIS Links Kills 1, Injures 2

Old Dominion University Shooter: Ex-National Guard Soldier With ISIS Past
                                                      

A deadly shooting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, on March 12, 2026, is being investigated by federal authorities as a terror-related attack. The gunman, a former U.S. Army National Guard member who had previously served years in prison for helping ISIS, killed one person and injured two others before being subdued and killed during the incident. 

The shooting occurred inside Constant Hall, a building on the university campus where an ROTC class was being held. According to investigators:

• The gunman entered a classroom and asked whether the class was connected to the ROTC program.

• Moments later, he opened fire on the people inside.

• One victim was killed and two others were injured in the attack.

• The attacker was stopped by people inside the room before police arrived. 

Witnesses and officials said the suspect shouted “Allahu Akbar” during the shooting. The Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed it is investigating the incident as a terrorism case. 

Authorities identified the gunman as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a 36-year-old former member of the Virginia National Guard. 

Key details about him include:

• Previously served in the National Guard from 2009 to 2016.

• In 2016, he pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to ISIS.

• He was sentenced in 2017 to 11 years in federal prison for the terrorism-related offense.

• Jalloh was released from prison in December 2024, roughly two years before the attack. 

Investigators say he had been influenced by extremist propaganda and had previously tried to purchase a rifle and support the terrorist group. 

Authorities reported the following casualties from the shooting:

• 1 person killed – a retired military officer who was teaching the ROTC class.

• 2 people injured – both associated with the ROTC program; one was reported to be in critical condition initially. 

After the attack, the injured victims were taken to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital for treatment. 

How the Gunman Was Stopped

The attack ended quickly due to the actions of people inside the classroom.

ROTC students reportedly intervened and subdued the gunman, preventing further casualties. Authorities praised their quick response, saying their actions likely saved many lives. 

Ongoing Investigation

Federal and local authorities are now trying to determine:

• How the suspect obtained a firearm despite being a convicted felon.

• Whether he had ongoing extremist connections after his release from prison.

• If anyone else assisted or influenced the attack. 

The FBI continues to treat the case as domestic terrorism inspired by ISIS ideology.