Tragic Shooting at Old Dominion University Claims Life of Military Science Professor
Details of the Incident
Lieutenant Colonel Brandon Shah has been identified as the victim of a shooting that occurred on Thursday at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. Shah served as the Professor of Military Science within the Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) program, which he was teaching when Mohamed Jalloh entered the classroom, confirmed it was an ROTC session, shouted "Allahu Akbar," and opened fire. Shah sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The FBI is treating this incident as a potential terror attack due to Jalloh's previous conviction related to ISIS.
Voorhees University publicly confirmed Shah's death through a Facebook post, expressing condolences and noting that he was the son-in-law of Dr. Dan Martin, a trustee and alumnus of the university. The post stated, "This tragedy is felt especially close to home for us. We lift Dr. Martin and his family in our thoughts and prayers during this time of unimaginable loss."
A Dedicated Military Career
A Virginia Native Who Gave Two Decades to the Military
Brandon Shah was originally from Virginia and enlisted in the US Army in 2003, starting as an Aviation Operations Specialist. He rose through the ranks to achieve the rank of Sergeant, serving in various capacities within the Active Duty Army, Army Reserves, and the Virginia Army National Guard for over twenty years. His military service included deployments for Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and a rotation for Atlantic Resolve, marking significant commitments in US military history.
Academic Achievements
His Education
Shah's educational background was as impressive as his military service. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a Military Science Minor from Old Dominion University, where he later became an instructor. Additionally, he obtained an MBA from the University of Georgia and a Master of Science in Engineering Management from the University of Kansas.
Military Honors
His Decorations
Throughout his career, Shah received numerous military accolades, including the Senior Army Aviator Badge, Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge, and Air Assault Badge, showcasing his aviation expertise and frontline service.
Heroic Actions During the Attack
The Student Who Stopped It Getting Worse
During the shooting, an ROTC student in the classroom took immediate action by confronting Jalloh and stabbing him, effectively halting the attack and preventing additional casualties. This student's bravery has been widely commended online and by law enforcement officials, as the situation could have resulted in a higher death toll without their intervention.
A Life of Service Cut Short
A Life of Service, Ended in a Classroom
Brandon Shah dedicated his life to serving his country, both in military operations abroad and in educating future military leaders at his alma mater. Tragically, he lost his life while fulfilling his role as an instructor. The investigation into Mohamed Jalloh, who had previously been convicted in 2017 for attempting to provide material support to ISIS and was released from federal prison in December 2024, is still ongoing.