FBI Investigates Virginia University Shooting as Terrorism, Student Heroes Subdue Attacker
The FBI has announced that a deadly shooting at Old Dominion University in Virginia is being investigated as an act of terrorism. The incident, which occurred on Thursday morning, resulted in one fatality and left another victim in critical condition before the attacker was subdued and killed by a group of students.
Details of the Attack and Investigation
Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, a former member of the Army National Guard, launched the attack at the university's business school building. According to Dominique Evans, special agent in charge of the FBI's Norfolk field office, Jalloh shouted "Allahu Akbar" before opening fire. Police responded within 10 minutes to reports of shots fired in a classroom, where two injured victims, both affiliated with the university, were taken to hospital. One remains in critical condition, while the cause of death for Jalloh has not yet been established.
FBI Director Kash Patel praised the students' actions in a social media post, stating that they "undoubtedly saved lives along with the quick response of law enforcement." He confirmed that the shooting is being treated as a terrorism investigation due to Jalloh's background and statements during the attack.
Background of the Attacker
Jalloh had a prior conviction for providing material support to ISIS, to which he pleaded guilty in 2016. He was sentenced to 11 years in prison but was released in December 2024. A court affidavit from 2016 details a three-month sting operation where Jalloh expressed interest in carrying out an attack similar to the 2009 Fort Hood shootings, which killed 13 people. He made contact with ISIS members in Africa, including an FBI informant, and attempted to purchase an AR-15 assault rifle from a Virginia gun store. After being turned away due to lack of proper paperwork, he returned the next day and bought a different assault rifle, which prosecutors said was rendered inoperable before he left the store. He was arrested the following day.
Prosecutors had requested a 20-year sentence, noting Jalloh's multiple attempts to join ISIS and acquire a gun for a murder plot in the U.S. They argued that he framed his plans in religious terms, suggesting that killing U.S. military members would lead to heaven, demonstrating his commitment to a deadly ideology. However, a district judge sentenced him to 11 years instead.
Implications and Response
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about terrorism and gun violence in educational settings. The quick actions of the students and law enforcement prevented further casualties, but it raises questions about security measures and the monitoring of individuals with extremist backgrounds. The FBI's investigation continues to explore all aspects of this attack as a terror-related event.
