A quiet Thursday morning at Old Dominion University shattered as gunfire erupted on campus, leaving one person dead and two injured. The scene unfolded rapidly, triggering an immediate lockdown and a frantic response from authorities.
The suspected gunman was identified as Mohamed Jalloh, a name that surfaced chillingly familiar to federal investigators. Jalloh had previously been convicted in 2017 of providing material support to ISIS, a dark chapter in his past that resurfaced with devastating consequences.
Released from prison in 2024, Jalloh’s motives remained a haunting question as police converged on the scene near Constant Hall. The initial emergency alert went out just before 10:49 a.m., urging students and staff to “Run-Hide-Fight” – a stark directive in a moment of terror.
Responding officers arrived to find the gunman deceased, ending the immediate threat. However, the aftermath revealed a campus reeling from trauma, with one victim transported to a local hospital and another seeking treatment independently. Both were reported to be in stable condition.
Jalloh’s history revealed a disturbing path, beginning with service in the National Guard. He left the military after becoming captivated by the extremist rhetoric of Anwar al-Aulaqi, a notorious Al-Qaeda leader, signaling a descent into radicalization.
His attempts to acquire firearms in North Carolina and Virginia, while connected with ISIS members in Nigeria, were documented by the Justice Department during his initial conviction. This past foreshadowed the tragic events at ODU.
The university swiftly canceled classes and operations, prioritizing the safety of its community. Counseling services were immediately made available to students, faculty, and staff grappling with the shock and grief.
University President Brian Hemphill expressed profound sadness, emphasizing the institution’s unwavering commitment to campus safety. He extended heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all those affected by the tragedy.
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger confirmed her administration was actively coordinating with local emergency responders, offering state support to ODU and the city of Norfolk. The investigation is being led by the Norfolk Police Department, with assistance from federal agencies.
Born in Sierra Leone and later naturalized as a U.S. citizen, Jalloh’s life took a tragic and violent turn. The search for understanding – for the reasons behind this act of violence – continues as the community begins to mourn and heal.
The FBI is assisting local authorities, offering resources and expertise to unravel the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The focus remains on determining a definitive motive and understanding the full scope of Jalloh’s actions.
