“Heroic ROTC Cadets Stop Terrorist Attack: Lt. Col. Brandon Shah Killed in Old Dominion University Shooting”

A tragic shooting occurred at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, on Thursday, March 12, 2026, claiming the life of Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, a respected Army ROTC instructor and professor of military science.

Lt. Col. Shah, a decorated veteran and ODU alumnus, was teaching an ROTC class in Constant Hall when the gunman entered and asked if it was the ROTC session before opening fire. Shah, a native Virginian from Staunton who enlisted in the Army in 2003 and served multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan as an Army aviator (including flying AH-64 Apache helicopters), was killed in the attack. He had earned numerous commendations, including two Bronze Stars, and was nearing retirement while leading ODU’s Army ROTC program as department chair.

Two other victims—both ROTC students—were injured and hospitalized. Their quick and heroic actions helped subdue the attacker, preventing further casualties; authorities reported that students ultimately killed the gunman during the confrontation.

The victim of the terrorist attack at Old Dominion has been identified as Lt. Col. Brandon Shah– who was a Professor of Military Science and the leader of the university’s ROTC program.

He was a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Atlantic… pic.twitter.com/79pfI4UwLG

— Greg Price (@greg_price11) March 12, 2026

The shooter was identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, 36, a former Virginia Army National Guard member previously convicted in 2016 for attempting to provide material support to ISIS. He had been released from prison in late 2024. Reports indicate Jalloh shouted “Allahu Akbar” before firing. The FBI has taken lead on the investigation, classifying the incident as an act of terrorism.

The university issued lockdown alerts, canceled classes, and closed the campus, with counseling services made available. Tributes from officials, including Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger and U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans, highlighted Shah’s service, leadership, and the bravery of the ROTC cadets. ODU mourned the loss of a dedicated educator who “exuded optimism and positivity” and inspired future officers.

This senseless act has left the ODU community and military families grieving, underscoring the ongoing risks of targeted violence on campuses. Prayers and support continue for Shah’s family, the injured students, and all affected.