A decorated U.S. Army officer and instructor at Old Dominion University was killed during a shooting inside an ROTC classroom, authorities confirmed.
The victim, Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, served as chair of the university’s military science department and was teaching an ROTC course when the attack occurred Thursday morning.
According to investigators, the suspect — identified as Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, 36 — allegedly entered the classroom and opened fire on students and the instructor.
Shah was a veteran of multiple deployments during his military career. After enlisting in the U.S. Army in 2003, he served tours supporting major operations in the Middle East, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He also participated in deployments related to Operation Atlantic Resolve.
Shah’s military record included more than 17 awards and decorations, including the Air Medal and several Army Commendation Medals. According to his university biography, he accumulated over 1,200 flight hours, including 600 combat flight hours across multiple aircraft.
The attack left two other ROTC members injured. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the incident as a possible act of terrorism.
Law enforcement sources said that several students reportedly intervened during the attack, confronting Jalloh and preventing further casualties.
Jalloh had previously been convicted in 2017 for attempting to provide material support to Islamic State and was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, according to the United States Department of Justice.
Authorities say Jalloh, originally from Sierra Leone and later a naturalized U.S. citizen, became radicalized after leaving his position with the Virginia National Guard.
Investigators say he admired extremist figures including Anwar al-Awlaki and reportedly referenced previous terror attacks such as the Fort Hood shooting during conversations about potential violence.
Authorities are also examining whether the ROTC class itself was specifically targeted. According to reports, the suspect allegedly asked students whether they were part of an ROTC class before opening fire.
Abigail Spanberger issued a statement honoring Shah’s life and service.
“A devoted ROTC instructor, Lt. Col. Shah didn’t just lead a life of service to our country — he taught and led others to follow that path,” she said. “I am grateful for his example, deeply saddened by his death, and praying for his family.”
Former colleagues and students described Shah as a dedicated mentor who inspired future military leaders.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing evidence and witness accounts related to the attack.
