In a tragic incident that shook the Old Dominion University (ODU) community, Lieutenant Colonel Brandon Shah, a dedicated instructor of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), was fatally shot on Thursday, March 12. The incident occurred shortly after 11 a.m. local time at the Norfolk, Virginia campus, prompting a swift response from law enforcement to manage what was described as “an active incident.”
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Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger confirmed Shah’s death in a post on social media platform X, expressing her condolences and highlighting Shah’s commitment to service. She stated he was not only a soldier but also a mentor who inspired many to pursue a life of public service. “I am grateful for his example, deeply saddened by his death, and praying for his family,” Spanberger wrote.
Details surrounding the attack revealed a chaotic scene as students endeavoured to subdue the shooter, identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh. Witnesses reported students confronting Jalloh, effectively stopping further violence before law enforcement could arrive. The FBI’s Norfolk field office confirmed that students played a crucial role in subduing the attacker, with special agent Dominique Evans acknowledging their bravery during a press conference.
The violence left two individuals hospitalized alongside the tragic loss of Lieutenant Colonel Shah, prompting an immediate investigation into the circumstances of the incident. Authorities have classified the shooting as an act of terrorism, with FBI Director Kash Patel confirming that Jalloh’s motives will be part of their ongoing investigation.
Friends and colleagues of Shah have expressed their sorrow and disbelief following the news of his death. Aerock Parinas, one of Shah’s longtime friends, reflected on the fragility of life, urging others to express their love for those close to them while they still can. Another friend, Carlos Ortiz, described the impending retirement and new chapter Shah was about to embark upon, lamenting the unexpected and violent nature of his death.
Lieutenant Colonel Shah, originally from Virginia, began his military career in 2003 as an aviation operations specialist before later pursuing a degree at ODU. He graduated with a degree in sociology and a minor in military science in 2007, achieving a commission as an officer. His role at ODU as a professor of military science was something he cherished deeply, reflecting his commitment to teaching the next generation of military leaders.
Former cadet leader Jason Fedish spoke fondly of Shah, highlighting his ability to uplift those around him. “He could take whatever feeling was in the room that wasn’t happy and make it happy,” Fedish remarked, adding that Shah’s optimism was infectious and that he made a significant impact on those he encountered.
Following the incident, the FBI’s Norfolk field office released a statement mourning the loss of life and emphasising the bravery exhibited by students during the event. They pledged to thoroughly investigate the incident, stating they would seek out every lead and gather evidence in an effort to understand more about the attack and its motives.
In a concerning revelation, it was disclosed that Mohamed Bailor Jalloh had a previous felony conviction for attempting to provide material support to the Islamic State group. Jalloh had been sentenced in 2017, serving time before being released in 2024. This information has raised further questions about the nature of the attack and the influences that may have contributed to it.
As investigations continue, the community of Old Dominion University grieves the loss of a respected instructor and dedicated officer. Lieutenant Colonel Brandon Shah’s commitment to his students and country will be remembered, with many sharing memories of his warmth and leadership. The impact of his loss will undoubtedly be felt for years to come as the university community seeks to heal and move forward from this devastating event.