These heroes saved countless lives and they should be celebrated!
A tragic shooting at Old Dominion University in Virginia ended after several students bravely intervened to stop the suspect, an action that authorities say likely prevented additional loss of life.
The incident occurred Thursday inside a classroom at the university, leaving one person dead and two others injured before the attacker was subdued by students in the room.
Federal authorities are now investigating the incident as a possible act of terrorism.
Students Step In to Stop the Suspect
Law enforcement officials say several students—some of whom were members of the university’s Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC)—acted quickly when the suspect began firing.
Kash Patel said the students’ actions played a critical role in ending the attack.
“Because several courageous students intervened and restrained the attacker, the suspect is now no longer alive,” Patel said in a statement posted on social media. “Their bravery, combined with the rapid response from law enforcement, likely prevented additional people from being harmed.”
Authorities say the suspect was restrained by the students before officers secured the scene. Officials have not yet released details about the exact cause of the suspect’s death.
FBI officials praised the students for their courage and quick thinking.
ROTC Instructor Passes in the Attack
Virginia officials confirmed that the person killed during the incident was Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, an ROTC instructor who spent years serving his country and mentoring young Americans interested in military service.
Abigail Spanberger released a statement honoring Shah’s dedication.
“Lt. Col. Brandon Shah was killed today in his classroom at Old Dominion University,” Spanberger said. “He devoted his life to serving our nation and helping guide the next generation of leaders.”
The governor also thanked the students and first responders who reacted quickly during the crisis.
Injured Victims Expected to Recover
Two other individuals were injured during the shooting.
Authorities say one victim was transported to a nearby hospital, while another traveled to a medical facility in Virginia Beach for treatment. Officials confirmed that both victims were in stable condition later Thursday.
Suspect Had Prior Terror Conviction
Investigators identified the suspect as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a 36-year-old man with a previous conviction related to terrorism.
According to law enforcement sources, Jalloh was convicted in 2017 for providing material support to nefarious groups. He was released from prison in 2024.
Officials say Jalloh was originally from Sierra Leone and later became a naturalized U.S. citizen. He previously served in the Virginia National Guard before leaving the military.
Court documents from earlier investigations indicated he had been influenced by extremist online lectures and had attempted to obtain firearms in both Virginia and North Carolina.
The FBI is now working with local authorities to determine what led to Thursday’s attack.
University Cancels Classes Following Incident
Following the shooting, Old Dominion University suspended classes and campus activities while law enforcement secured the area.
The university also made counseling services available to students and staff affected by the incident.
Brian Hemphill emphasized the university’s commitment to safety.
“The safety of our campus community is our highest priority,” Hemphill said. “We remain committed to maintaining a secure learning environment for everyone at Old Dominion University.”
Investigation Continues
Federal and local authorities are continuing their investigation into the shooting. Officials say more details will be released as they become available.
Law enforcement leaders say the bravery of the students who confronted the suspect played a key role in stopping the attack and preventing additional casualties.
