A routine Thursday morning at Vintage Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia was suddenly interrupted when Mohamed Jalloh opened fire on campus.
The shooting resulted in one fatality and two injuries. The gunman, Jalloh, was similarly killed.
According to law enforcement sources, a heroic ROTC student fatally stabbed Jalloh, preventing further violence. FBI Special Agent In Charge Dominique Evans stated, “Brave ROTC members in that room subdued him, and if not for them, I’m not sure what else he may have done.”
Mohamed Jalloh, 36, was a former Army National Guardsman who previously served prison time for attempting to provide material support to ISIS. Before the attack, Jalloh reportedly shouted “Allahu Akbar” – or “God is greater.”
The attacker’s ultimate cause of death remains unclear. Jalloh left the Army as a specialist, a rank automatically achieved after four years of service.
Planned Attack
The attack occurred during Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting and spiritual renewal. Court records indicate Jalloh believed Ramadan would be an ideal time to carry out an attack.
Jalloh became radicalized after consuming extremist propaganda, including lectures from al-Qaeda-linked cleric Anwar al-Awlaki. He told an FBI confidential informant he had considered attacking the United States and believed such operations were “the right thing.”
In 2016, Jalloh attempted to procure weapons and donate money to ISIS. He also praised the 2009 Fort Hood attack, which killed 13 and wounded 32.
Jalloh was arrested on July 3, 2016, for attempting to provide material support to ISIS. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release in October 2017. Prosecutors had recommended a 20-year sentence.
Authorities have stated there is currently no ongoing threat to the Old Dominion University campus community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Mohamed Jalloh?
Mohamed Jalloh was a 36-year-old former Army National Guardsman who previously served prison time for attempting to provide material support to ISIS.
What happened at Old Dominion University?
Mohamed Jalloh opened fire on the Old Dominion University campus, resulting in one death, two injuries, and his own death after being stabbed by an ROTC student.
When did Jalloh attempt to support ISIS?
Jalloh attempted to provide material support to ISIS in 2016, leading to his arrest on July 3, 2016, and a guilty plea later that year.
As investigations continue, what role might early release programs play in assessing and managing the risks posed by individuals with a history of extremist views?
