Gunman in fatal Old Dominion University shooting ID’d as convicted ISIS supporter, officials say
ISIS Convict Identified in ODU Shooting
Authorities have confirmed that the individual responsible for the attack at Old Dominion University on Thursday morning had a prior conviction related to ISIS. Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, 36, of Sterling, Virginia, was identified as the gunman, who killed one person and injured two others before being fatally shot himself, according to senior law enforcement officials.
Students Played Key Role in Subduing Shooter
FBI Director Kash Patel highlighted on X that a group of students likely prevented further casualties by overpowering Jalloh. The incident is being treated as a potential terrorist act, he added.
“A group of brave students who stepped in and subdued the gunman most likely saved lives.”
Victims and Their Condition
ODU Police Chief Garrett Shelton reported that two victims were transported to the hospital and are in stable condition. A third person, who sought medical attention independently, remains under investigation. The identities of the injured have not been disclosed yet, though NBC affiliate WAVY noted that two of them are ROTC members.
Shooter’s Background and Alleged Motive
Jalloh, a former Army National Guard member, is believed to have targeted an ROTC class during the attack. While motive remains unclear, federal records from a 2016 case indicate he was involved in a plot to “murder US military personnel.” At that time, he attempted to purchase an AK-47 in North Carolina, but the seller declined. He later acquired an AR-15 and was arrested the following day.
“This entire crime is not who I am, it’s not who I plan to be, and it’s not who I have been.”
Release from Prison and Past Allegations
Bureau of Prison records show Jalloh was released in 2024 after completing 85% of his 11-year sentence for providing material support to ISIS. In 2017, he sent gift card codes to an undercover FBI agent, believing the recipient was an ISIS operative. His defense team argued he was “gullible” and “passive” in the scheme.
University Actions and Safety Measures
Old Dominion University issued an emergency alert at 10:48 a.m. about an active threat, later declaring the situation “neutralized” by 11:30 a.m. Classes were suspended on the main campus, and the university remained closed Friday. Norfolk police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ Washington field division were on-site during the crisis.
Leadership Response
Gov. Abigail Spanberger expressed concern, stating her administration was coordinating with local responders. “My Administration remains in close contact with local emergency responders as state support is being mobilized,” she said on X. Norfolk Public Schools confirmed that students from multiple high schools were visiting the campus during the shooting, but all individuals are now safe.
“We are deeply committed to safeguarding all Monarchs and ensuring a secure learning, living, and working environment at all times.”
