In a harrowing incident at Old Dominion University in Virginia, a terrorist gunman was subdued and killed by courageous students after he opened fire in a classroom, leaving one instructor dead and two others wounded. The attack, which occurred on Thursday morning, has been labeled an act of terrorism by the FBI, with investigations ongoing into the shooter's motives and background.
Heroic Response Saves Lives
Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a 36-year-old former Virginia National Guardsman, entered a classroom in Constant Hall, part of the College of Business, and inquired if it was an ROTC class. Upon confirmation, he began shooting, killing the instructor, Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, a retired Army officer. Before the attack, Jalloh reportedly shouted "Allahu Akbar," meaning "God is greater."
Students in the room quickly acted, subduing Jalloh and rendering him no longer a threat. Dominique Evans, special agent in charge of the FBI's Norfolk field office, praised their actions, stating, "If not for them, I'm not sure what else he would have done." According to reports, one student stabbed Jalloh during the confrontation, leading to his death.
FBI Investigation and Praise
FBI Director Kash Patel took to social media to commend the "brave students," noting that their intervention "undoubtedly saved lives along with the quick response of law enforcement." The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is fully engaged in the investigation, working alongside local authorities to uncover details about the attack.
Jalloh had a prior conviction for attempting to provide material support to ISIS, pleading guilty in 2016 and serving an 11-year prison sentence before his release in December 2024. Investigators believe he was inspired by the 2009 Fort Hood shooting rampage, where Army psychiatrist Nidal Malik Hasan killed 13 people.
Victims and Community Impact
Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, the slain instructor, was remembered as a devoted ROTC leader who inspired others to serve. Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger paid tribute to him on social media, highlighting his lifelong commitment to the country. The two injured individuals have not yet been named, and the university community is grappling with the aftermath of the violence.
Norfolk Police responded to the scene shortly after 11 a.m., and by 11:43 a.m., the threat was neutralized. The FBI urges anyone with information about Jalloh or the attack to submit tips, as small details may help complete the investigation.
This incident underscores the ongoing threats of terrorism in educational settings and the critical role of quick, brave responses in preventing further tragedy.
