Former Convicted Terrorist Identified as Gunman in Deadly Old Dominion University Shooting

Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, previously imprisoned for supporting ISIS, killed one and injured two at Old Dominion University before dying at the scene.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 13, 2026, 5:00 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from PEOPLE

Attack at Constant Hall

On the morning of March 12, 2026, authorities responded to reports of an active shooter at Old Dominion University's Constant Hall in Norfolk, Virginia. Police Chief Garrett Shelton confirmed that the gunman, identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, entered a classroom and opened fire at approximately 10:47 a.m. local time. The attack resulted in one fatality and left two others injured. One victim remains in critical condition at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, while a third victim was treated and released from an emergency center.

Perpetrator Background and Prior Conviction

Jalloh was a former member of the Army National Guard with a documented history of radicalization. In 2017, he was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to attempting to provide material support to ISIS. During the 2016 FBI investigation that led to his initial arrest, Jalloh had expressed interest in carrying out an attack similar to the 2009 Fort Hood shooting. Records indicate he was released from federal custody in December 2024, approximately 15 months before the university shooting.

FBI Investigation and Student Intervention

FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that the shooting is being investigated as an act of terrorism. According to witness reports and official statements, Jalloh shouted "Allahu Akbar" during the assault. Director Patel highlighted the actions of a group of "brave students" who intervened to subdue Jalloh. The university has since confirmed that Jalloh died during the struggle, though specific details regarding the cause of death have not been released pending an autopsy.