The aftermath of a mass shooting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, became the backdrop for a startlingly defiant statement from the city’s Commonwealth’s Attorney. Ramin Fatehi, unprompted during a press conference, shifted the focus from the tragedy itself to a broader condemnation of gun laws and lawmakers.
Pressed by reporters to clarify his remarks, Fatehi doubled down, asserting his comments were “the truth, no matter how much the gun lobby wants to deny it.” This came despite emerging details about the shooter’s past – a former National Guardsman and naturalized citizen with a prior conviction for attempting to support ISIS.
Fatehi argued that the ideology of the attacker was irrelevant, stating plainly, “No matter the ideology of an attacker, that attacker is more dangerous with a gun than without one.” His stance ignited immediate controversy, particularly given the shooter’s documented history.
The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s campaign has received significant financial backing from groups funded by George Soros. Records show over $650,000 flowed into his campaign coffers from the Justice and Public Safety PAC and Democracy PAC between 2021 and 2025.
These PACs, heavily supported by Soros over the past decade – with over $70 million in combined contributions – are known for backing progressive prosecutors. Fatehi joins a cohort of similarly supported figures, including former district attorneys in San Francisco, Chicago, and Los Angeles, who have faced scrutiny and, in some cases, recall.
Fatehi’s decision to address blame so directly, even acknowledging limitations on discussing the case’s specifics, drew sharp criticism. He painted a grim picture of a nation prioritizing firearms over human life, citing tragedies involving children, worshippers, and now, college students.
“People are as safe on the ODU campus as anywhere, arguably safer than in other parts of Norfolk,” he stated, yet insisted the shooting wasn’t an isolated incident. He predicted further violence was inevitable without significant change, framing it as a systemic failure.
The shooter has been identified as Mohamed Jalloh. The incident unfolded shortly before 10:50 a.m., targeting ROTC cadets, according to initial reports. A swift and heroic intervention by one individual – a student who stabbed and killed Jalloh – brought the attack to an end.
The university confirmed one fatality in addition to the shooter, with two others sustaining injuries. Federal authorities, including the FBI, are investigating the shooting as a potential act of terrorism, adding another layer of complexity to an already devastating event.
Fatehi concluded his remarks with a plea for action, urging citizens to hold lawmakers accountable and demand sensible gun control measures. He called for a shift in national priorities, emphasizing the need to prevent future tragedies and honor the lives lost.
