Norfolk, Virginia — Authorities in Virginia are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred at Old Dominion University (ODU), where Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, a retired U.S. Army officer and Professor of Military Science, lost his life after a gunman opened fire inside a campus building.
The suspect has been identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, who investigators say entered Constant Hall on the university campus on Thursday morning.
According to reports from law enforcement and federal authorities, Jalloh walked into a classroom area and asked if the session was part of an ROTC class. When people inside confirmed that it was, he reportedly opened fire.
During the attack, Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, who led the university’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, was fatally wounded. Two additional individuals connected to the program were also shot during the incident.
Authorities reported that one of the victims remains in critical condition, while another injured person was treated and later released from the hospital.
Investigators later confirmed that Mohamed Bailor Jalloh had previously been convicted in a federal case related to terrorism.
According to information cited by federal authorities, he had been sentenced to 11 years in prison for attempting to provide material support to ISIS, also known as ISIL. Jalloh was released from prison in 2024, approximately two years before the attack.
Law enforcement agencies, including federal investigators, are currently treating the incident as a terror-related attack while continuing to review evidence and the suspect’s background.
Lt. Col. Brandon Shah had built a distinguished career in the United States Army before serving at Old Dominion University.
Where he was responsible for mentoring cadets and overseeing the university’s military training program.
His role involved preparing students for leadership as future officers in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The shooting has sent shockwaves through the Old Dominion University community and across the state of Virginia, with tributes emerging from military members.
Students, and colleagues who remembered Brandon Shah for his dedication to service and commitment to developing the next generation of Army leaders.
Authorities say the investigation into the actions of Mohamed Bailor Jalloh and the circumstances surrounding the attack remains ongoing.
