Federal Charges Filed Against Man Accused of Selling Gun to Old Dominion University Shooter
The U.S. Department of Justice has charged Kenya Chapman with federal offenses related to the sale of a firearm to Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, the gunman responsible for a deadly shooting at Old Dominion University (ODU) in Virginia. Authorities allege that Chapman sold the weapon to Jalloh despite Jalloh's prior felony conviction for attempting to aid the Islamic State (IS) extremist group, which legally barred him from possessing firearms.
Details of the Shooting and Investigation
On Thursday, Mohamed Bailor Jalloh opened fire in a classroom at ODU, killing one person and injuring two others. According to court documents, Jalloh targeted an ROTC event, asking attendees twice to confirm it was an ROTC gathering before beginning his attack. He was subsequently subdued and killed by ROTC students, whom FBI officials praised for their bravery in preventing further casualties.
The victim who died was identified as Lt Col Brandon Shah, a 42-year-old professor of military science at ODU and a former army helicopter pilot. Shah, who leaves behind a spouse and child, was described by university president Brian Hemphill as a devoted family man and heroic protector.
Charges and Allegations Against Chapman
Kenya Chapman faces charges of making a false statement during a firearm purchase and engaging in the business of firearms dealing without a license. In an interview with agents, Chapman admitted to stealing the gun from a car in Newport News, Virginia, about a year prior to the shooting and selling it to Jalloh. Chapman stated that he met Jalloh at work and that Jalloh claimed he needed the gun for protection as a delivery driver.
Chapman acknowledged knowing Jalloh had spent time in prison but denied awareness of his felony conviction. He expressed no knowledge that Jalloh would commit the attack, according to an affidavit. The gun used in the shooting had an obliterated serial number, complicating initial investigative efforts to trace its origins.
Background on Jalloh and Broader Context
Mohamed Bailor Jalloh pleaded guilty in 2016 to attempting to aid IS and was sentenced to 11 years in prison. He was released from federal custody in December 2024 and was on supervised release at the time of the shooting. During the attack, Jalloh reportedly yelled "Allahu Akbar" before firing.
This incident occurs amid heightened security concerns in the U.S., including warnings from the FBI about potential drone attacks by Iranian operatives in California and other acts of violence inspired by extremist groups. However, authorities have stated there is no direct link between the ODU shooting and ongoing conflicts, such as the war in Iran.
The case underscores ongoing issues related to gun control, terrorism, and public safety in educational settings, with federal prosecutors emphasizing the importance of enforcing laws against illegal firearm sales.
